NGC 3199 (EN)
| R.A. | Dec. | Size | Mag | SB | Cnt.St | Type | Distance | Chart |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10h 16m 33.9s | -57° 56′ 20.1″ | 15.0′ | -- | -- | -- | EN | -- | -- |
Background
NGC 3199 is a Wolf-Rayet bow-shock nebula about 12,000 light-years away, nicknamed the “Banana” or “Croissant” Nebula for its strongly curved arc. The nebula is the shock front formed where the powerful stellar wind of WR 18 (HD 89358) ploughs into the surrounding interstellar medium — a real-time snapshot of a massive, short-lived star sculpting its environment.
My Observing Notes
30-cm (SkyWatcher 12-inch f/5): Inspired by Southern Gems; not in my Cambridge Star Atlas. Find by hopping from IC 2602 northward to the trio θ–υ–ω Carinae, then xx° NW of ω Car. Even at low power, a thick band of curved nebulosity stands out. Adding a UHC filter at 167× (9 mm Nagler) lifts the contrast significantly; with averted vision the curve of the arc can be sensed continuing further around. Confirmed via the Club's 22-inch Dob on the Saturday night — much brighter, with intricate detail in the arch shape.(10 April 2026)
References
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