NASA's Hubble captures stunning photos of the Crab Nebula's 'beating heart'

The Crab Nebula has fascinated sky watchers for centuries, with recorded observations of the supernova remnants dating back to 1054 A.D.

Over time, means of examining the turbulent aftermath of the stellar explosion have improved, and recently NASA's Hubble Space Telescope captured a detailed close-up.

Towards the center of the image is the neutron star causing all the drama.

It spins at a rate of 30 times per second, spewing energy beams and taking on a decidedly pulsating appearance.

As it does so, the surrounding area, which is filled with debris and gas that glows, continues to expand.

Getting a glimpse of the phenomenon doesn't require NASA-grade equipment.

The light emitted by the nebula is so bright, it can be viewed through commercially available telescopes.

More incredible photos taken by the Hubble Telescope: