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NGC 7026

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description NGC 7026 Overview

NGC 7026 is a bipolar planetary nebula in the constellation Cygnus, discovered by American astronomer Lewis Swift in 1873 (not Edward Swift). The nebula features a distinctive butterfly or hourglass shape with two lobes of gas extending outward from a central star, which is in the final stages of stellar evolution. NGC 7026 is approximately 6,000 light-years from Earth and is estimated to be around 2,200 years old, making it a relatively young planetary nebula.

help NGC 7026 FAQ

Is NGC 7026 a planet or a planetary nebula?

NGC 7026 is a bipolar planetary nebula, not a planet. The name refers to the historical resemblance of some nebulae to planetary disks, while NGC 7026 is expanding gas around a dying central star. [NGC 7026 overview](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NGC_7026)

Who discovered NGC 7026?

American astronomer Lewis Swift discovered NGC 7026 in 1873. It is sometimes confused with other astronomers named Swift, but the cataloged discoverer is Lewis Swift. [NGC 7026 overview](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NGC_7026)

Why does NGC 7026 look like a butterfly or hourglass?

The nebula has two main lobes of gas extending from the central star, creating its bipolar shape. This structure is linked to directed outflows from the star rather than a simple spherical shell. [Astronomical study](https://arxiv.org/abs/1210.2445)

Where in the sky can I find NGC 7026?

NGC 7026 is located in the constellation Cygnus. Its compact, bipolar form makes it a distinctive target for detailed astronomical imaging and spectroscopy. [NGC 7026 overview](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NGC_7026)

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