This planetary nebula is a favorite target of experienced observers
and can be found just below the bowl of the Big Dipper.
Two prominent dark areas in this nebula give the appearance of an owl's face and
give rise to its popular name: the Owl Nebula.
For observers in the Northern hemisphere,
the Owl Nebula is visible all year round but its low surface brightness
makes it a bit of a challenge to locate.
A small telescope, dark skies and moderate magnification reveal the owl's face.
The spiral galaxy M108 is less than a degree away.
|