Helix Nebula

The Helix, NGC 7293, in Aquarius

Image copyright: Andre Potgieter

This image of the Helix Nebula was submitted by Andre Potgieter.  The Helix is a planetary nebula, although that description is misleading.  Planetary nebulae are large shells of hot gas ejected from the surfaces of old stars, and have nothing to do with planets.  The name comes from the superficial resemblance, in a small telescope, to one of the outer gas giant planets.

124(10.3Hours) Frames ,ISO 800, Darks , Flats & Bias Frames Used.
SW200p ,Eq6 Mount,Canon 1100D Modded.