Reflection nebula (NGC 2170), optical image. This nebula lies around 2,400 light years from Earth in the constellation Monoceros. Reflection nebulae a

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Reflection nebula (NGC 2170), optical image. This nebula lies around 2,400 light years from Earth in the constellation Monoceros. Reflection nebulae are huge clouds of gas and dust which are lit up by reflecting the light of nearby stars. They typically appear blue as blue light is scattered more than red. The reddish regions are due to areas of emission nebulosity, where the radiation of hot young stars ionises hydrogen gas and causes it to glow. Imaged by the Moorook Observatory, Australia.

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Photo credit: © ROBERT GENDLER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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