At the Edge of NGC 2174
Explanation:
This
fantastic skyscape lies near the edge
of NGC 2174 a star forming
region about 6,400 light-years away in the nebula-rich constellation
of Orion.
It follows mountainous clouds of gas and dust carved by
winds and radiation from the region's
newborn stars, now found
scattered
in open star clusters embedded around the center of NGC 2174,
off the top of the frame.
Though star formation continues within these dusty cosmic clouds
they will likely be dispersed by the energetic newborn
stars within a few million years.
Recorded at infrared wavelengths by the Hubble Space Telescope, the
interstellar scene
spans about 6 light-years.
The
image celebrates the upcoming 24th anniversary of Hubble's launch
onboard the space shuttle
orbiter Discovery on April 24, 1990.
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.
