NGC 2244: A Star Cluster in the Rosette Nebula
Explanation:
In the heart of the
Rosette Nebula
lies a bright
open cluster
of stars that lights up the nebula.
The stars of
NGC 2244 formed from the surrounding gas only
four million years ago and emit light and
wind that define the
nebula's appearance today.
High energy light from the
bright young stars of
NGC 2244 ionizes the surrounding
hydrogen gas clouds to create the red
emission nebula appearance.
The hot
wind of particles that streams away from the
cluster stars contributes to an already complex
menagerie of gas and
dust filaments while slowly
evacuating the cluster center.
NGC 2244
measures about 50
light-years across, lies about
4500 light-years away, and is visible with
binoculars towards the
constellation of
Monoceros.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
