description Blue Planetary (NGC 3918) Overview
NGC 3918 is a planetary nebula in the constellation Centaurus, formed from gas expelled by a dying low- to intermediate-mass star. The nebula is illuminated by its hot central stellar remnant and is often called the Blue Planetary because of its blue or turquoise appearance in astronomical images. It is a compact southern-sky object studied through imaging and spectroscopy of its glowing shell and central star.
help Blue Planetary (NGC 3918) FAQ
What is NGC 3918, and why is it called the Blue Planetary?
NGC 3918 is a bright planetary nebula in the constellation Centaurus. Its intense turquoise color and compact shape led observers to call it the Blue Planetary.
Is NGC 3918 actually a planet?
No, the name planetary nebula is a historical visual description, not an indication of a planet. NGC 3918 is a shell of gas expelled by a dying star around its hot central star.
What creates the blue color of NGC 3918?
The turquoise appearance comes from glowing ionized gas energized by radiation from the central star. Different elements emit different wavelengths, producing the vivid color seen in images.
What should I look for when viewing NGC 3918?
The most distinctive features are its compact turquoise glow and central star in Centaurus. A telescope is useful because the object is small and its color is more apparent in detailed observations than to the naked eye.
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