Sagittarius

Notable deep-sky objects

The Milky Way as seen from the earth is at its densest as it passes through Sagittarius, as this is where the galactic center lies. Consequently, Sagittarius contains many star clusters and nebulae. One of the brightest of the star clusters is M55, about 7.5° west of δ Sgr.

Related Topics:
Milky Way - Earth - Galactic center - M55

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The constellation contains nebulae such as the Lagoon Nebula (M8), near λ Sagittarii, beautiful in telescopes; the Omega, Swan, or Horseshoe Nebula (M17), near the border with Scutum; and the Trifid Nebula (M20), a large nebula containing some very young, hot stars.

Related Topics:
Lagoon Nebula (M8) - Omega, Swan, or Horseshoe Nebula (M17) - Scutum - Trifid Nebula (M20)

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The complex radio source Sagittarius A associated with the galactic centre is also here. Astronomers believe that Sagittarius A may contain a supermassive black hole.

Related Topics:
Sagittarius A - Supermassive black hole

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