The Iris Nebula, also known as NGC 7023, is a captivating reflection nebula characterized by its vibrant blue hues. It is illuminated by a central young star, HD 200775, which reflects off surrounding clouds of gas and dust. The nebula is part of the larger Cepheus Molecular Cloud Complex, contributing to its intricate patterns and vivid colors. Astrophotographers are drawn to its beauty, although capturing its faint details requires skill and patience.
Catalog numbers and names
- Common Name: Iris Nebula
- NGC: 7023
- Caldwell: 4
- LBN: 487
- vdB: 139
Position and the cosmic neighborhood
The Iris Nebula is situated in the northern sky within the constellation Cepheus. Its proximity to the north celestial pole makes it a circumpolar object for many observers in the Northern Hemisphere. This nebula is surrounded by a mix of emission and dark nebulae, creating a complex and visually striking cosmic environment.
Nice to Know
- The Iris Nebula was first discovered by Sir William Herschel in 1794.
- Its name is derived from the Greek goddess of the rainbow, Iris, due to its colorful appearance.
- It is a popular target for astrophotographers due to its vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
- The nebula is part of the Cepheus Molecular Cloud Complex, a larger region of gas and dust.
Brightness, distance and size
The Iris Nebula has an apparent magnitude of 6.8, making it a moderately bright object in the night sky. It is located about 1,300 light-years from Earth and spans roughly 6 light-years across. In terms of apparent size, it measures approximately 18 arcminutes, making it a suitable target for amateur astrophotographers with moderate equipment.
