M1 (a.k.a NGC1952) – the supernova remnant of SN1054

About the Object

Messier 1 a.k.a. NGC 1952, commonly known as the Crab Nebula, is a supernova remnant located about 6,500 light-years away in the constellation Taurus. It is the expanding debris of SN1054, a massive star that exploded in 1054 AD, an event recorded by Chinese astronomers and visible even during daylight. The nebula's intricate network of filaments consists of gas ejected during the explosion. At its center lies the Crab Pulsar, a rapidly rotating neutron star (pulsar) spinning about 30 times per second. The combination of delicate filaments, energetic processes, and a well-documented historical origin makes M1 one of the most fascinating and extensively studied supernova remnants in our Galaxy.

Observation Notes

Imaging benefitted from a number of very good and quite nights with seeing between 1.5” and 2” - not too frequently seen in Central European suburbia.

Data were taken on 2026 October 14 - 16

Technical Details

View the full-resolution image together with complete acquisition and processing details on AstroBin.