Orion Nebula, 19th century
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Orion Nebula, 19th century
Orion Nebula. 19th-century astronomical observation of the Orion Nebula (M42, NGC 1976). North is at top. This active region of star formation is visible to the naked eye and is some 24 light years across. It is around 1350 light years away, in the constellation of Orion. This 40-minute exposure was obtained on 23 January 1897, from the observatory in Daramona, Westmeath, Ireland. This observatory was operated by Irish astronomer William Edward Wilson (1851-1908), one of the pioneers of the new techniques of astrophotography. Published in Astronomical and Physical Researches (1900)
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Media ID 9218211
© ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1897 Amateur Astronomy Astrophotograph Astrophotography Astrophysical Astrophysics Early Astronomical Photographs Irish Long Exposure Nebula Night Sky Observation Orion Orion Nebula Pioneering Telescope Universe Ngc 1976
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the awe-inspiring beauty of the Orion Nebula, captured through a 19th-century astronomical observation. The image, taken on January 23rd, 1897, from the Daramona Observatory in Westmeath, Ireland, reveals a mesmerizing view of this active region of star formation. With its vast expanse spanning approximately 24 light years and located around 1350 light years away in the constellation of Orion, this celestial wonder is visible to the naked eye. The photographer behind this remarkable image is none other than Irish astronomer William Edward Wilson (1851-1908), who played a pivotal role in pioneering new techniques of astrophotography during that era. His dedication to capturing early astronomical photographs has left an indelible mark on our understanding of the universe. Published in Astronomical and Physical Researches (1900), this monochrome photograph offers us a glimpse into history as it takes us back to a time when astronomers relied on long exposures and amateur astronomy to explore distant corners of space. This extraordinary snapshot serves as a testament to both Wilson's expertise and his contribution to advancing our knowledge about astrophysics. As we gaze upon this stunning piece from Science Photo Library, we are reminded not only of humanity's enduring fascination with the night sky but also how far we have come in unraveling its mysteries since those early days of astronomical exploration.
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