Flaming Star, Tadpole, and Spider Nebulae

In the heart of the winter Milky Way, the Flaming Star (IC 405), Tadpole (IC 410), and Spider (IC 417) nebulae form a mesmerizing trio of emission and reflection nebulae in the constellation Auriga. These celestial marvels lie between 10,000 and 12,000 light-years away, offering a glimpse into the interplay of star formation and interstellar gas. The Flaming Star Nebula, energized by the bright star AE Aurigae, combines glowing hydrogen gas and blue reflection nebulae in a captivating display. Meanwhile, IC 410, home to the “Tadpoles,” showcases dense star-forming regions resembling their namesake creatures, shaped by stellar winds.

The Spider Nebula, IC 417, appears entwined with its companion, the Fly Nebula (NGC 1931), in a delicate dance of gas and dust illuminated by young, massive stars. Observed under light-polluted skies in Modena, Italy (SQM 18.4–18.8, Bortle 7.5–8), these nebulae challenge astrophotographers with their faint, intricate structures. Yet even here, the brilliance of this cosmic trio reminds us of the dynamic processes shaping the Milky Way, bridging vast distances with their light.

Abell 78, a captivating planetary nebula residing in the depths of space, tells a story of stellar evolution and celestial beauty. This ethereal cosmic wonder is located in the constellation Cygnus, approximately 5,000 light-years from our home planet. The captivating image showcases the delicate, intricate structure of Abell 78, a shell of glowing gas and dust expelled by a dying star in its final stages of evolution. In this celestial tableau, Abell 78 serves as a poignant reminder of the magnificent transformations that stars undergo as they gracefully exit the cosmic stage, leaving behind a luminous legacy that continues to inspire and captivate our sense of wonder.

Image Description and Details : Sh2-261, also known as Lower’s Nebula (after Harold and Charles Lower discovered it in 1939), is an emission nebula found on the outermost edge of our Milkyway between the Orion and Perseus arm.

APM SD Apo (Fpl53) 140 F4,6 (644 mm)
ZWO ASI 533MC Pro + iOptron GEM45

Feb 2023
Optolong L-Ultimate (3 nm): 111X600"
Optolong Uv Ir cut: 30X60” (star color)
Tot: 19h

Modena (Sqm 18.3-18.9 Bortle 7,5-8), Italy

Copyright: Andrea Arbizzi