M16 - Eagle Nebula
The Eagle Nebula is a young open cluster surrounded by emission nebulosity, famous for the "Pillars of Creation" imaged by the Hubble Space Telescope.
Distance: 7,000 light-years
Apparent Magnitude: 6.40
Apparent Size: 70' × 50'
Constellation: Serpens Cauda
Object Type: Emission Nebula + Open Cluster
Key Features:
- "Pillars of Creation" - star-forming columns
- Contains NGC 6611 cluster (8,100 stars)
- Stellar spire structure
- Active star formation
- Iconic Hubble target
Best Imaging Season: June - September
Optimal Integration: 15+ hours for pillars
