Helix Nebula

The Helix Nebula (also known as NGC 7293, C 63 or the Helix Nebula keeping its English name) is one of the planetary nebulae closest to Earth. It is located 200 pc or 650 al from Earth in the constellation Aquarius and has an angular diameter of about 0.5°. It was discovered by Karl Ludwig Harding before 1824.

It looks very similar to the Ring Nebula. It is also similar in size, age, and physical characteristics to the Dumbbell Nebula; the significant differences in appearance are a consequence of the relative proximity and the different angle from which it is observed.

The Helix Nebula is often called the Eye of God, since at least 2003