Often overlooked in the constellation of Vulpecula is an emission nebula called NGC 6820 or SH2-86. With a strong resemblance to the Elephant’s Trunk in Cepheus, it’s powered by the galactic cluster nearby (ie, NGC 6823) comprised by O and B stars, their powerful stellar winds shaping the surrounding nebulosity into a cylindrical spire. Taken last night with a 9.25” SCT and imaged in narrowband, it only took 6.5 hours to render this image along with an additional Quadband filter to assist with light pollution.
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