Object Analysis

The Butterfly Nebula (NGC 6302) is a bipolar planetary nebula in the constellation Scorpius. The structure of the nebula is among the most complex ever observed in planetary nebulae. The spectrum of NGC 6302 shows that its central star is one of the hottest stars in the galaxy, with a surface temperature in excess of 250,000 degrees Celsius.

The dying central star, which has never been observed directly because it is surrounded by a dense equatorial disk of dust, is ejecting gas at speeds of over 600,000 miles per hour. This gas forms the "wings" of the butterfly, which span over 3 light-years.

The chemistry of the nebula is rich and interesting, containing hydrocarbons, carbonates, and iron. It is located about 3,392 light-years away. The intricate patterns in the wings are likely caused by the interaction of the fast wind with slower winds ejected earlier in the star's life.