M20- The Trifid Nebula is part of a cloud of  gas that includes a star forming region and it is classified as an emission & reflection nebula.  This nebula is located in the constellation Sagittarius and is located slightly to the North of M8.  M20 is a dim object and cannot readily be seen with un-aided eyes but under right conditions knowledgeable observers may be able to locate this elusive target.   CLICK HERE locate M20 in the night sky.

    Take a close look at the center this image, it shows an immense dust lane near its center and sections divided into 3 distinctive lobes of gas; each lobe is formed from a gas of varying type giving the distinctive colors for each.  This nebula is located in a section of a Milky Way arm which accounts for the numerous background stars.