Rosette Nebula


The constellation of Monoceros is home to a large cloud of gas and dust known as the Rosette Nebula. At the heart of this cosmic star nursery lies a cluster of hot young stars officially known as NGC 2244. Their stellar winds are clearing a hole in the center of the nebula (NGC 2237) while the surrounding dust and gas glows from the ultraviolet light created by these stars.

 

The Rosette (or Rosetta) Nebula’s appearance in optical light resembles a rose flower or the rosette, the stylized flower design used in sculptural objects since ancient times, and the nebula was named after the design.

 

OTA:  William Optics Star71

Camera:  Atik 460ex w/EFW2 filter wheel

Filters:  Astrodon Ha/OIII/SII

Mount:  AP Mach1

Exposure:  Ha:OIII:SII    120:140:140 (m)

Data obtained:  February/March 2015


Meadowlark Ridge Observatory
Meadowlark Ridge Observatory