M17     The Omega Nebula in Sagittarius (NGC 6618)

        Object type:             Emission (H II region) nebula

        Distance from Earth:      5000 light years / 1500 parsecs

        Distance across Nebula:   30 light years / 9.2 parsecs


        The Omega Nebula is a bright nebula excited by a group of at least 
        five hot O and B type stars.  It is also known as the Horseshoe and
        the Swan.             
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