Trifid Nebula (M20)

May 31 - June 1, 2024 (Cherry Springs, PA)

The Trifid Nebula, also known as Messier 20 (M20), is a colorful and dynamic star-forming region located in the constellation Sagittarius. It is characterized by its three distinct lobes or "trifid" appearance, divided by dark lanes of dust. The Trifid Nebula is approximately 5,200 light-years away from Earth and spans about 40 light-years in diameter. It is a popular target for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers due to its bright appearance and intricate structure, providing valuable insights into the processes of star formation within our Milky Way galaxy.