Pareidolia Insights (2) -The Souls of Nebulae

"Where words are restrained, the eyes often talk a great deal."— Samuel Richardson

When viewing images of cosmic nebulae, I often recall the quote above. Like asteroids, many NASA-documented nebulae are not only assigned numerical designations but also given names inspired by deities and mythology. I can imagine how the scientists who first observed these celestial wonders were so awestruck that scientific terminology seemed dull in comparison to the divine presence they perceived.

With that in mind, I present a collection of NASA’s nebula images, along with their vivid and evocative names, using the fewest words possible. Simply gaze upon them and let your eyes absorb their essence—allowing the soul of the universe and the spirit within you to connect in a moment of silent wonder.

1. Eye of God

   

   This Helix Nebula is often called the "Eye of God" or "Eye of Sauron" due to its striking appearance, with a bright central region surrounded by a colorful, circular halo. Located in the constellation Aquarius, it is one of the closest planetary nebulae to Earth.

2. Heart and Soul

   

   NASA featured this nebula image in 2023 to celebrate Valentine's Day. In the upper right corner of the image is the Heart Nebula (IC 1805), named for its heart-like shape, while in the lower left is the Soul Nebula (IC 1871).

3. Pillars of Creation

   

   It is one of the most famous nebulae. Its name alludes to divine creation and mythology as these towering dust clouds are forming new stars in deep space. 

4. Witch Head

   

   Resembling the profile of a witch’s face, this reflection nebula near the bright star Rigel in Orion is thought to be sculpted by stellar winds.

5. Orion

   

   This is one of the most famous nebulae, located in the Orion constellation (M42), named after the hunter Orion from Greek mythology. In the image, the figure of Orion appears vividly as if running to the left, bringing the myth to life.

6. Ghost Head

   

   This nebula (NGC 2080) is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud. It is named "Ghost Head" due to its bright, eye-like regions, resembling a ghostly face.

7. Medusa

   

   Named after the serpent-haired Gorgon from Greek mythology, this planetary nebula in the constellation Gemini features braided, glowing filaments that resemble Medusa's mythical transformation.

8. Eskimo

   

   Designated as NGC 2392, this nebula is also known as the Clown Nebula due to its round central region resembling a clown's face.

"There is a race between humanity and the universe. Humans are striving to build bigger, better, faster, and smarter machines. Meanwhile, the universe is striving to create bigger, better, and faster mindless people. So far, the universe is winning."