Nebulas – The Garden Astronomer

Caldwell 74: The Eight-Burst Nebula in Vela

Color image of the Caldwell 74 planetary nebula

Discover the Eight-Burst Nebula (Caldwell 74), a southern planetary nebula in Vela with a hidden white dwarf at its heart.

Monkey Head Nebula (NGC 2174): Orion’s Hidden Face

Explore the Monkey Head Nebula (NGC 2174) in Orion—its glowing red gas, newborn stars, discovery history, and tips for observing this hidden winter deep-sky object.

The Flame Nebula (NGC 2024): Orion’s Subtle Fire

Features both the Horsehead and Flame Nebula in one color picture

Discover Orion’s Flame Nebula, glowing crimson from hidden star IRS2b. Learn about its beauty and how to observe visually and with a Seestar.

Messier 76: The Little Dumbbell Nebula in Perseus

Shows Messier 76 planetary nebula featuring bright bar in the middle with colorful lobes protruding from top and bottom

Learn about Messier 76, the Little Dumbbell Nebula in Perseus, a bipolar planetary nebula with twin lobes and a scorching central star. Includes personal observations and Seestar images.