The Trifid Nebula (M20), 2009 (digital photo)

Creator: Eddie Trimarchi This image shows the Trfid Nebula (M20). This glowing cloud of gas takes its name from the dark lanes of dust which appear to divide it into three. The pink glow comes from hydrogen molecules which have been energized by the stars at the centre of the nebula. To the left of the image a neighboring cloud of dust reflects the blue light of the central stars. Born digital photograph entitled 'The Trifid Nebula (M20)' by Eddie Trimarchi, taken on 17th June 2009. Taken with 16-inch Richey Chretien telescope; Apogee Alta U9000 CCD camera. Highly Commended in the Deep Space category of Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2010.