NGC 7027

The above image shows an inner torus of gas that is glowing very brightly. This inner structure is enshrouded by an obscuring (though translucent) pillow-like cloud of gas and dust. This object is often considered the very initial stage of the expanding planetary nebula within. Soon the tenuous cloud of dust will be blown away to leave a brilliantly glowing ring-like nebula. Note that the bright green area of the nebula corresponds with the area where the dust is thinnest. Thus, this area is a little window through which we see the OIII emission escaping directly, and the baby nebula to come! Also see the high-resolution HST image of this nebula.

This image was taken as part of Advanced Observing Program (AOP) program at Kitt Peak Visitor Center during 2014.