description Blue Flash Nebula Overview
The Blue Flash Nebula, formally cataloged as NGC 6905, is a planetary nebula situated in the northern constellation of Delphinus. It was first discovered by the Anglo-German astronomer William Herschel in 1784. At its core lies an exceptionally hot, oxygen-rich Wolf-Rayet central star, classified as [WO2], which ionizes the surrounding expelled gas clouds. The nebula is a frequent observational target for amateur astronomers studying late-stage stellar evolution.
help Blue Flash Nebula FAQ
What is NGC 6905, and why is it called the Blue Flash Nebula?
NGC 6905 is a planetary nebula in the northern constellation Delphinus. Its blue appearance comes from glowing, ionized gas, which led to the nickname Blue Flash Nebula.
Who discovered the Blue Flash Nebula?
William Herschel discovered NGC 6905 in 1784. The object was later entered into the New General Catalogue under the designation NGC 6905.
What kind of star is at the center of NGC 6905?
The nebula contains an exceptionally hot, oxygen-rich Wolf-Rayet-type central star. Its radiation helps illuminate the expanding shell of gas around it.
Is the Blue Flash Nebula related to a planet?
No, NGC 6905 is called a planetary nebula because of an old visual naming tradition, not because it contains a planet. It is the glowing material expelled by a dying star.
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