NGC 281 (also known as the “Pacman Nebula”) consists of a small star cluster (IC 1590) and a large diffuse emission nebula spanning 48 light years across.
It is a bright emission nebula located in the northern constellation of Cassiopeia, discovered in 1883.
The double star HD5005 in the center of the cluster is actually a quintuple system as the primary star has another 4 companion stars.
These relatively young stars cause the gas of the nebula to light up.
There are also several dark Bok globules visible in the nebula.
Other versions
Previous/older images:
Aug 31, 2008 – Canon 20D (80mm TMB 1h 24m)
Object info
| Name | NGC281 – The Pacman Nebula |
| Type | Emission nebula |
| Constellation | Cassiopeia |
| Right ascension | 00h 52m 59s |
| Declination | +56° 37′ 19″ |
| Distance | 9.500 ly |
| Other designations | IC 11, Sh2-184 |
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