Ring Nebula

The Ring Nebula is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Lyra. Its name is derived from its distinctive ring-like shape, which is visible in telescopes. The nebula is formed from the outer layers of a dying star that has expelled its gases, creating a glowing shell of ionized gas and dust. The central star, which is typically a white dwarf, emits ultraviolet light that ionizes the surrounding materials, causing them to emit light and produce the nebula's characteristic colors. The Ring Nebula is one of the most studied examples of a planetary nebula and is about 2,000 light-years away from Earth. Its appearance and structure help astronomers understand the late stages of stellar evolution and the processes involved in the formation of such nebulae.