Infrared image of the Cone Nebula and the surrounding Snowflake Cluster (NGC 2264) captured by the Spitzer Space Telescope. The image showcases the turbulent star formation process, with bright stars illuminating the gas and dust clouds. The Cone Nebula is distinctly visible, pointing towards a bright star in the center, while numerous other stars from the cluster dot the field. The scene is set against a backdrop of countless stars, creating a stunning celestial display in the Monoceros constellation, approximately 2,500 light-years away.

Astronomy Picture from 09/05/2007

The Snowflake Cluster versus the Cone Nebula

Source: https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap070509.html


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