Another fine example of a planetary nebula, NGC 1501 is a pinkish-purplish nebula that surrounds a very hot (160,000°F) central star.  The structure of the nebula appears to be affected by the vigorous winds from the star.  Originally the core of the dying star, the central star will eventually become a white dwarf and cool off over billions of years.  NGC 1501 was discovered by William Herschel in 1787 and is estimated to be roughly 4,890 light years away.  It stats are RA: 04h 06m 59.6s, Dec: +60° 55' 11", Mag: 13.3, Size: 52.0", Central Star Mag: 14.3.

Optics:
Camera:
Exposure:

Celestron C11 F/10 (2800mm Focal Length)
SBIG ST10XME with Adaptive Optics
LRGB = 190:50:50:70 minutes

Date:
Location:
Imager:

October 21-22, 2005
Columbus, Texas
Kent E. Biggs