M43

Click image for larger version.

This small part of the Great Orion Nebula is just north of M42.  The bright star at the center is Nu Orionis and the source of this small nebula's fluorescence.  The darker dust lane (at the bottom in this image) gives M43 a distinct comma shape that is easily visible through visual observation.  However, the gas and dust between the bright segments of M42 and M43 are difficult to see in smaller scopes and the reason why this portion of the nebula has its own designation.

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Date:  12/22/2006

Location:  Cheddar Ranch Observatory

Telescope:  LX200 10" SCT @ f/6.3

Mount:  AP-1200

Camera:  Canon 350D, Modified, Type 1

Exposure Count:  25 x 1 minute frames, 25 minutes total exposure.

Guiding:  Unguided