M42 - The Great Orion Nebula

Messier M42, M43, NGC 1975, NGC 1977 – The famous Orion, de Mairan’s and Running Man Nebulae in Orion
Image by Todd K. Tuttle 01/12/2021
The Great Orion Nebula, located on the “sword” of Orion The entire complex is a huge stellar nursery. One of the most remarkable winter objects to view in the entire sky. This emission nebula is visible even in binoculars. M42 is the larger portion of the nebula to the south. M43 -de Mairan’s Nebula – is the top “comma” feature of the Great Nebula. NGC 1975, 1977 – the Running Man Nebula, or Mermaid’s Purse – is above and to the right. The “Running Man” is the darker region which looks like a man running to the east with out-stretched arms. Visually in small scopes you can see a tight grouping of young stars in the heart of the nebula called The Trapezium. Long exposure images get over-exposed and the Trapezium is blown out and too bright. Click the image for a larger version.


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Messier Marathon 2024

The North Central Kansas Astronomical Society will attempt our 2024 Messier Marathon on March 10th, 2024, instead of the 9th due to recent rain. This year we will attempt the marathon both visually and imaging. Progress posted on our Messier site. Internet provided by NCKCN, and Cunningham Telephone & Cable & TV