NGC 1360


Combination of 3, 3 minute exposures, SBIG ST9XE CCD camera.
300mm f/6 newtonian telescope at prime focus.

NGC 1360 is a moderately large planetary nebula in Fornax, situated about 4 degrees north-east of the 3rd magnitude star, alpha fornax. Although the total magnitude is around 9.6, the rather large size means that the planetary has a rather low surface brightness, which can make it a moderately difficult object for an 8" telescope if the skies are not very dark. This low surface brightness is clearly seen in this image. Although the central star appears quite bright, and the stellar limiting magnitude is about 19, the nebula is quite faint. Also notice that the nebula is decidedly elliptical, with the long axis running north-west to south-east.


Combination of 10, 3 minute images, SBIG STL-1001E CCD.
20" f/6.8 cassegrain at prime focus.