Saturn Nebula
NGC 7009
Properties
Position & Identifiers
Visibility
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About Saturn Nebula
Description
The Saturn Nebula (NGC 7009) is a bright planetary nebula in Aquarius, about 2,400 light-years away. It gets its name from the ansae (handle-like projections) extending from either side of the bright oval shell, resembling Saturn's rings seen at a slight angle.
Observing Tips
One of the brightest planetary nebulae and a rewarding target. A 4-inch scope shows a bright blue-green disk. At 150x+ in a 6-inch, the elongation becomes apparent. The ansae require 10 inches and steady seeing. An OIII filter enhances the view. Best in autumn.
History
Discovered by William Herschel on September 7, 1782. Lord Rosse first noted the Saturn-like extensions in the 1840s using his great 72-inch reflector at Birr Castle, Ireland.
Fun Facts
The Saturn Nebula's ansae are jets of material ejected at high speed from the central star's poles. The central star has a temperature of about 55,000 K and will eventually cool to become a white dwarf.
Community Photos (1)
Credit: ESO/J. Walsh. License: CC BY 4.0. (Wikimedia Commons)
Skybred Mar 2, 2026