description Snake Nebula Overview
The Snake Nebula, formally designated as Barnard 72, is a dark nebula located in the constellation Ophiuchus. It consists of a dense cloud of interstellar gas and dust that effectively blocks out the light from background stars, creating a striking silhouette against the starry band of the Milky Way. The nebula is named for its distinctive S-shape, which resembles a winding snake. It is part of a larger complex of dark nebulae in the region that are frequently photographed by astronomers.
help Snake Nebula FAQ
Why is Barnard 72 called the Snake Nebula?
Its dark dust lane bends into a long S-like form resembling a snake against the bright Milky Way. The object is catalogued as Barnard 72, or B72.
Does the Snake Nebula emit its own light?
No. B72 is a dark absorption nebula whose dense dust blocks light from the rich background star field, creating the visible silhouette.
Where in the sky can the Snake Nebula be found?
The nebula lies in Ophiuchus near the Milky Way's bright central regions. It is commonly photographed in wide fields that also include the dark nebulae Barnard 68, Barnard 69 and Barnard 70.
What equipment is useful for photographing Barnard 72?
A tracking mount, dark sky and wide-field camera or telescope help reveal its winding outline. Because B72 is seen through contrast rather than emission, preserving the dense surrounding star field is especially important.
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