Object Information                                            Imaging Details

The Pelican Nebula (IC 5070) is an H II region associated with the North America Nebula in the constellation Cygnus. The nebula resembles a pelican in shape, hence the name. The Pelican Nebula is a large area of emission nebula in the constellation Cygnus (the Swan), close to Deneb, and divided from its brighter, larger neighbor, the North America Nebula, by a molecular cloud filled with dark dust.

The Nebula is large (easily 4 times the area of the full moon), but very dim. Larger aperture telescopes will show a hint of its shape. Imaging is required to bring out the details.

This image was taken in October 2008 from ASLC's 'Upham' dark sky site with a Hyperstar 3-equipped C11. Skies were transparent; seeing was fair.

Clicking on the image gives a larger (1024 x 671 pixel) image.

Telescope:

Celestron NexStar GPS 11"