M16

The Eagle Nebula is a young open cluster embedded in a large emission nebula (IC 4703) in Serpens Cauda, about 7,000 light-years from Earth. The cluster contains about 460 stars and is only 1-2 million years old. The nebula is famous for the 'Pillars of Creation' — towering columns of gas and dust where new stars are being born, immortalized by the Hubble Space Telescope.

Located about 2 degrees north of M17 (the Omega Nebula). The star cluster is easily visible in binoculars. The surrounding nebulosity requires darker skies and benefits greatly from a UHC or OIII filter. A 6-inch telescope at low power with a nebula filter reveals the extent of the nebula around the cluster. The Pillars of Creation are extremely difficult visually — they require at least a 12-inch telescope, excellent conditions, and an OIII filter. Best observed from June through September.

The star cluster was discovered by Philippe Loys de Cheseaux in 1745-46. Charles Messier cataloged it in 1764, noting the surrounding nebulosity. The Hubble Space Telescope image of the Pillars of Creation, taken in 1995, became one of the most iconic astronomical images ever produced.