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Christmas Tree Cluster (NGC 2264)
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Christmas Tree Cluster (NGC 2264)
Christmas Tree cluster (NGC 2264), optical image. This nebula, also known as the Cone Mosaic nebula, consists of clouds of dust and gas that glow as they are ionised by radiation from a hot young cluster of stars. The cluster contains around 600 stars, between 1 and 4 million years old. The nebulous region resembles the shape of a Christmas tree, seen here with the base to the left, illuminated by the clusters brightest star,s Monocerotis. The Cone nebula (a dark pillar) is at the apex of the Christmas tree on the right. The nebula lies around 2600 light years from the Earth in the constellation Monoceros
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Media ID 2830851
© ROBERT GENDLER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Astrophysical Astrophysics Clouds Dust Emission Nebula Evolution Hii Region Ionised Gas Monoceros Nebula Nebulae Nebulosity Open Cluster Star Star Birth Stellar Formation Telescope Christmas Tree Cluster Cone Nebula Ngc 2264
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This stunning print captures the mesmerizing beauty of the Christmas Tree Cluster (NGC 2264), also known as the Cone Mosaic nebula. Illuminated by a hot young cluster of stars, this nebulous region resembles the shape of a Christmas tree, with its base to the left and the Cone nebula at its apex on the right. The image showcases clouds of dust and gas that glow brilliantly as they are ionized by radiation from these youthful stars. With approximately 600 stars ranging from 1 to 4 million years old, this stellar formation is a true spectacle in our universe. Located around 2600 light years away from Earth in the constellation Monoceros, this celestial wonder serves as a testament to both astrophysics and astronomy. It symbolizes star birth and evolution, showcasing how dust particles come together to form magnificent clusters like NGC 2264. As we gaze upon this breathtaking scene captured through powerful telescopes, we can't help but marvel at nature's ability to create such ethereal wonders. This print invites us into an awe-inspiring world where nebulosity meets open clusters and ionized gas dances with cosmic dust. Science Photo Library has masterfully immortalized this extraordinary moment for all space enthusiasts to cherish. Let your imagination soar as you explore every intricate detail within this snapshot of our vast cosmos.
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