The Elephant's Trunk Nebula

“Sawsadee, that means Hello or Good-by in Thai.  We Thai elephants are agreeably cordial.”

“Thank you, Chang.  Now, you know that this blog is about more than elephants right?  In fact it’s about books and ... "

“Stars?”

“Stars?”

“Remember what Beth, your editor said, ‘Shoot for the Moon.  Even if you miss you’ll land among the stars.’  Of course, we elephants are already there. Have you ever seen the Elephant’s Trunk Nebula?  A nebula is a collection of interstellar dust and gasses.  This nebula, with its dark tendrils, contains material for star formation.  You might say it’s a nursery for young stars.”

“Wow!”

“We’d have to ask Mr. Brian Lula for permission for his picture but you can view it on the Astronomy Picture of the Day site at:  http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap071018.html

“Chang, That's fabulous.  What a site!  And named after you!  Amazing!  You’re everywhere!"

"Sawsadee, ma cherie."