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(X-ray: NASA/UIUC/Y.Chu et al., Optical: NASA/HST) NGC 6543 is a planetary nebula, also known as the Cat's Eye. This composite image by Chandra (purple) and by Hubble (red and green) shows where the hot, X-ray emitting gas appears in relation to the cooler material seen in optical wavelengths. A planetary nebula (so called because it looks like a planet when viewed with a small telescope) is formed when a dying red giant star puffs off its outer layer, leaving behind a hot central core. NGC 6543 (Cat's Eye Nebula) Photo Album Page 1 | 2 | 3 Back to Beginning | Close Window Chandra X-Ray Observatory