| IRAS 13208-2060 | |
| Type: | Preplanetary Nebula |
| Dec: | −60° 36′ 30,7″ |
| Ra: | 13h 24m 04,40s |
| Epoch: | J2000 |
IRAS 13208-6020 is a preplanetary nebula in the Constellation Centaurus. These nebulae are formed from material that is shed by a central star. It was first discovered and observed during the IRAS Sky Survey. This is a relatively short-lived phenomenon that gives astronomers an opportunity to watch the early stages of planetary nebula formation, hence the name protoplanetary, or preplanetary nebula.[1]
IRAS 13208-6020 has a very clear bipolar form, with two very similar outflows of material in opposite directions and a dusty ring around the star. It does not shine, but is instead illuminated by light from the central star. IRAS 13208-6020 is not currently in the planetary nebula stage, and it is assumed to be very early in its lifespan.[2]