313 second exposure. Modified Canon Digital Rebel DSLR camera.
5" f/5 refractor at prime focus.
NGC 6723 is a small, moderately bright globular cluster on the border between Sagittarius and Corona Australis. The globular cluster is visible in a small telescope, although partial resolution generally requires an 8" telescope. What makes this cluster particularly interesting is the region in which it is situated. Immediately to the south of the cluster is a complex mass of dark nebulosity with several patches illuminated by imbedded stars. The brightest of these relfection nebulae is NGC 6726/6727, while the comet-like feature just to the lower left of it is NGC 6729. Several of these stars here are irregular variables and as they vary, so the brightness and shape of the nebulosity varies. This region is a fascinating area to observe with a good globular cluster, murky dark patches, and foggy stars that change brightness irregularly.
