NGC 2170

NGC 2170, also known as the Angel Nebula, is a reflection nebula located approximately 2,700 light-years away in the constellation Monoceros (the Unicorn). It is part of Monoceros R2, one of the closest massive star forming regions to the Sun. The nebula has the designation NGC 2170 in the New General Catalogue.

Key characteristics:

Type: Reflection nebula

Constellation: Monoceros

Distance: Approximately 2,700 light-years

Size: 2.0' x 2.0'

Discoverer: William Herschel (1784)

Appearance:

The Angel Nebula is the brightest and westernmost part of the Monoceros R2 giant molecular cloud.

It reflects the light of nearby hot stars and contains a compact H II region catalogued as PKS 0605-06 at its centre.

The massive young stars are concealed by the thick dust clouds and cannot be seen in visible light, but they shine in the infrared band.

Their strong winds and radiation are responsible for shaping the nebula's dust and gas.

The Angel Nebula is joined by other bluish reflection nebulae that form part of the same massive star forming complex.

Interesting facts:

The Angel Nebula is a favorite target for astrophotographers due to its beauty and relatively easy accessibility.

It is located in a rich star field, making for stunning images.

The nebula is a reminder of the ongoing star formation process in our galaxy.