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Blinking Planetary Nebula (NGC 6826)

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description Blinking Planetary Nebula (NGC 6826) Overview

The Blinking Planetary Nebula, designated NGC 6826, is a bright planetary nebula located in the northern constellation Cygnus. It features a central white dwarf surrounded by a shell of ionized gas and is noted for the presence of fast, low-ionization emission regions called flier knots. In amateur telescopes, the nebula exhibits an optical illusion where looking directly at the bright central star causes the surrounding shell to visually disappear, while using averted vision makes it reappear. It is frequently observed by amateur astronomers for this unique visual effect.

help Blinking Planetary Nebula (NGC 6826) FAQ

What is the catalog number of the Blinking Planetary Nebula?

The Blinking Planetary Nebula is designated NGC 6826. It is a planetary nebula in the constellation Cygnus.

Why is NGC 6826 called the Blinking Planetary Nebula?

Its central star can appear to disappear when an observer looks directly at it through a telescope, then reappear when using averted vision. The effect is caused by how the eye responds to the nebula's bright surrounding glow.

What is inside the Blinking Planetary Nebula?

NGC 6826 contains a central white dwarf surrounded by a shell of ionized gas. It also has fast, low-ionization emission regions known as FLIERs.

Is the Blinking Planetary Nebula actually a planet?

No. It is a planetary nebula, the glowing shell produced after a Sun-like star sheds its outer layers, and NGC 6826 is located in Cygnus.

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