Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2023 February 6
A cluster of stars is seen in the evacuated centre of
a nebula of gas and dust. Intricate dust pillars occur at 
both the top and bottom of the image.
Please see the explanation for more detailed information.

In the Heart of the Rosette Nebula
Image Credit & Copyright: Lyman Insley

Explanation: In the heart of the Rosette Nebula lies a bright cluster of stars that lights up the nebula. The stars of NGC 2244 formed from the surrounding gas only a few million years ago. The featured image taken in mid-January using multiple exposures and very specific colours of Sulfur (shaded red), Hydrogen (green), and Oxygen (blue), captures the central region in tremendous detail. A hot wind of particles streams away from the cluster stars and contributes to an already complex menagerie of gas and dust filaments while slowly evacuating the cluster centre. The Rosette Nebula's centre measures about 50 light-years across, lies about 5,200 light-years away, and is visible with binoculars towards the constellation of the Unicorn (Monoceros).

Your Sky Surprise: What picture did APOD feature on your birthday? (post 1995)
Tomorrow's picture: double dipper comet


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