Roscosmos has released images of nebula NGC 2264, known as the “Christmas Tree” nebula, located in the constellation Monoceros.
The state corporation explains that this space object is an active star formation zone and received its unofficial name due to its shape resembling a pine tree decorated for the holiday.
Roscosmos notes that the structure of the nebula resembles a Christmas tree with a “wreath” of clouds of gas, dust and bright stars. It includes the Cone Nebula, located at the top of the frame and resembling an upside-down Christmas tree, as well as the Foxfur Nebula in the center of the image.
Capture was performed using a TS-Optics Photoline telescope with an 80 mm aperture and focal reducer, an ASI533MC Pro camera, and a HEQ5 Pro mount. An L-eNhance filter was used to enhance detail, and the total exposure time was nearly four hours. The corporation clarified that the Unicorn constellation is located about 2.5 thousand light years from Earth.
Previously, Roscosmos published a photo of the largest iceberg on the planet.
