description Gum Nebula Overview
The Gum Nebula is a large emission nebula spanning a wide area of sky across the constellations of Vela and Puppis. It is named after Australian astronomer Colin Gum, who catalogued it in his 1955 survey of southern HII regions. The nebula is among the largest emission nebulae known and encompasses or overlaps with other features including the Vela Supernova Remnant, associated with a supernova estimated to have occurred approximately 11,000 years ago. It remains an object of study in both optical and radio astronomy.
help Gum Nebula FAQ
Where is the Gum Nebula located?
The Gum Nebula spans a large area across the constellations Vela and Puppis. It is an emission nebula, meaning glowing gas is energized by nearby stars.
Who was the Gum Nebula named after?
It was named after Australian astronomer Colin Gum. He catalogued it in a 1955 survey of southern H II regions.
Why is the Gum Nebula difficult to see?
Although it is one of the largest emission nebulae, its light is spread over a very wide area of sky. That makes its surface brightness low, so photographs and narrowband filters reveal it more clearly than ordinary visual observing.
Is the Gum Nebula a supernova remnant?
The Gum Nebula is classified as a large emission nebula rather than simply a single compact supernova remnant. Its complex structure includes ionized gas and regions associated with stellar activity in Vela and Puppis.
explore Explore More
Similar to Gum Nebula
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
