Explore the Lemon Slice Nebula (IC 3568)

 Situated 4500 light-years away in the direction of the constellation Giraffe, the IC 3568, also known as the Lemon Slice Nebula, is one of the most symmetrical planetary nebulae ever documented. Just a few degrees from the North Star, this nebula is famous for its simplicity and regularity.

At the time of its unearthing, IC 3568 was regarded as one of the least complex planetary nebulae, with only an outer halo that lacked distinguishing features. However, more in-depth observations later uncovered a more intricate central structure, complete with filaments surrounding the white dwarf that gave rise to the nebula.

With its relatively small size, IC 3568 can be identified as a young nebula. Its gas hasn't had sufficient time to expand, making the diameter of the nebula's central part only 0.4 light-years. 

Contrary to its small size, the nebula is visible at the 12th apparent magnitude and can be spotted with a small to medium-sized telescope given its location in a relatively sparse star region. 

The Lemon Slice alias for IC 3568 comes from its yellowish appearance in the iconic image captured by the Hubble Space Telescope, resembling a lemon slice due to the filter through which it was observed. 

Image credit. NASA, ESA, Hubble, and Judy Schmidt.