description RCW 147 Overview
RCW 147, widely known as the Trifid Nebula or Messier 20, is a star-forming region located in the constellation Sagittarius. Discovered by French astronomer Charles Messier in 1761, the cosmic object is distinguished by its unique combination of an emission nebula, a reflection nebula, and an absorption dark nebula. Its name derives from the dark dust lanes that divide its bright central core into three prominent lobes.
insights Ranking position
RCW 147 ranks #30 of 812 in the Nebula ranking, behind Cassiopeia A, ahead of Sh2-275.
help RCW 147 FAQ
What is the more commonly known astronomical name for RCW 147?
RCW 147 is widely known among astronomers as the Trifid Nebula, and is also cataloged as Messier 20. It is a famous and highly photogenic star-forming region.
Where is the Trifid Nebula (RCW 147) located in the night sky?
The Trifid Nebula is located in the northern summer constellation of Sagittarius. It sits in a rich region of the Milky Way galaxy, often photographed near the Lagoon Nebula.
Who discovered the Trifid Nebula?
The nebula was discovered by the French astronomer Charles Messier in 1761. He subsequently cataloged it as the 20th object in his famous list of non-cometary celestial bodies.
What visual characteristics make the Trifid Nebula (RCW 147) unique?
The cosmic object is distinguished by its unique combination of three different types of nebulae: an emission nebula, a reflection nebula, and a dark nebula. The dark dust lanes divide the glowing cloud into three distinct lobes.
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