| Description | This famous target evolved over time. A small, open cluster (NGC 6611) was discovered by Jean-Philippe de Cheseaux in 1745–46. It was cataloged by Messier with a notation of nebulosity, on June 3, 1764 (same as M15-18), so he is often credited with its discovery (IC 4703). Today, these distinction are generally ignored and M16 now refers to the Eagle Nebula complex. It includes the famous "Pillars of Creation" of Hubble fame, which is one of the closest star birthing areas to our solar system. I was very pleased with the result of the July 25, 2024 observation. . In the gallery you'll also find a later capture (June 1, 2024) taken with the same camera, using my EdgeHD 8" at F10 (full focal length). This was taken with the L-eNhance dual band-pass filter and 40m integration in Bin2. Where I set the histogram in SharpCap for a dramatic, dark look in the initial capture, I went for a much lighter, less saturated view in the second. |
