The fading Stingray Nebula

Stellar Science

The Decline of the Youngest Planetary Nebula

The youngest planetary nebula ever found is already fading, shedding light on its star's evolution.

Planetary nebulae (mostly)

Stellar Science

How Planetary Nebulae Get Their Shapes

New research shows why these celestial gems range in shape from spirals to butterflies.

Ring Nebula

Deep Sky

Evenings with the Ring Nebula

Everyone loves this cosmic donut. Like Saturn, the Ring Nebula is a must-see for beginners and seasoned amateurs alike. Whether you're just cutting your deep-sky teeth or attempting to see its central star — one of visual astronomy's Holy Grails — the Ring has it all.