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Spirograph Nebula (IC 418)

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description Spirograph Nebula (IC 418) Overview

IC 418, known as the Spirograph Nebula, is a compact planetary nebula in the constellation Lepus. It consists of gas expelled by a dying star and illuminated by the hot stellar remnant at its center, whose temperature is approximately 40,000 kelvin. Detailed images reveal intricate arcs, loops, and shell-like patterns that inspired the nebula's informal name, while its structure provides evidence of changing winds during the star's late evolution.

help Spirograph Nebula (IC 418) FAQ

What is the Spirograph Nebula?

IC 418 is a compact planetary nebula in Lepus, formed when a Sun-like star expelled its outer layers. The hot stellar remnant at the center makes that gas glow ([NASA Science](https://science.nasa.gov/asset/hubble/the-spirograph-nebula-ic-418/)).

Why is IC 418 called the Spirograph Nebula?

Hubble images show fine, looping structure that resembles patterns made by a Spirograph drawing toy. The nickname describes its appearance, not a separate type of nebula ([NASA Science](https://science.nasa.gov/asset/hubble/the-spirograph-nebula-ic-418/)).

How far away is IC 418?

NASA describes it as about 2,000 light-years away in the direction of the constellation Lepus. Its compact appearance does not mean it is close to Earth ([NASA Science](https://science.nasa.gov/asset/hubble/the-spirograph-nebula-ic-418/)).

What will happen to the Spirograph Nebula?

The glowing shell will gradually disperse over the next several thousand years, while the central remnant cools into a white dwarf over billions of years. The Sun is expected to pass through a broadly similar stage far in the future ([NASA Science](https://science.nasa.gov/asset/hubble/the-spirograph-nebula-ic-418/)).

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