The Crab Nebula is categorized as a supernova remnant. It is believed to be created after the explosion of a large star while it was at the end of its lifespan. This supernova explosion was extremely bright and clearly visible to the naked eye for approximately 2 years. It was visible even during daytime for almost 23 days.
This nebula is located in the constellation of Taurus at a distance of around 6,500 light years from our planet. It was discovered by the English astronomer John Bevis in 1731. He first observed a cloudy blob in the sky.
Quick Facts: –
- The Crab Nebula has an incredibly dense and rapidly rotating object known as a pulsar at its heart. It emits high levels of radiation.
- This pulsar is thought to have a diameter of only 18 miles but it has at least 1.5 times the mass of the Sun.
- It produces 75,000 times more energy compared to the Sun. It emits radiation from the entire range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
- This nebula is created in formation of heavy elements that can even be found in our bodies and present in our solar vicinity.
- It also created interstellar mediums. The shock waves are produced which heat up the temperature in these mediums.
- The Crab Nebula is the first ever object to be recognized as a supernova remnant.
- Zeta Pegasi is the nearest bright star to this nebula. Once you locate this star, you can easily find the nebula in the sky.
- The magnetic field of the nebula has four magnetic poles rather than two, making it even cooler.
