NGC7023 region_Full resolution_10113x5681_U_100
This is a 3-panel mosaic of the region around NGC7023, in the constellation Cepheus, taken during May this year. The designation NGC 7023 actually refers to the open cluster of stars within the larger blue reflection nebula which is designated as LBN 487.
NGC 7023, also known as the Iris Nebula because of its flower-like shape, is a bright reflection nebula. The bluish glow of the nebula comes from a hot, massive star at the centre of the nebula. Blue light from the star is scattered off dust grains in the nebula, giving it its distinctive colour. The dust can also be seen on the outer portions of the nebula, where it has a brownish colour and blocks out stars behind it.
To the right of NGC 7023 lies another reflection nebula, SH2-136. The nebula’s clouds of dust and gas have shapes that resemble human figures with their arms raised, giving rise to its popular name as the Ghost Nebula. These clouds contain several young stars whose light makes the nebula glow a brownish colour.
Halfway between the Iris and Ghost nebulae lies the orange / red star, T – Cephei. This is a red giant star coming towards the end stages of its life. If it was in the same place as our Sun, it would reach out beyond the orbit of Mars.
NGC7023 region_Full resolution_10113x5681_U_100
This is a 3-panel mosaic of the region around NGC7023, in the constellation Cepheus, taken during May this year. The designation NGC 7023 actually refers to the open cluster of stars within the larger blue reflection nebula which is designated as LBN 487.
NGC 7023, also known as the Iris Nebula because of its flower-like shape, is a bright reflection nebula. The bluish glow of the nebula comes from a hot, massive star at the centre of the nebula. Blue light from the star is scattered off dust grains in the nebula, giving it its distinctive colour. The dust can also be seen on the outer portions of the nebula, where it has a brownish colour and blocks out stars behind it.
To the right of NGC 7023 lies another reflection nebula, SH2-136. The nebula’s clouds of dust and gas have shapes that resemble human figures with their arms raised, giving rise to its popular name as the Ghost Nebula. These clouds contain several young stars whose light makes the nebula glow a brownish colour.
Halfway between the Iris and Ghost nebulae lies the orange / red star, T – Cephei. This is a red giant star coming towards the end stages of its life. If it was in the same place as our Sun, it would reach out beyond the orbit of Mars.