Caldwell 50, also NGC 2244, is an open star cluster located within the Rosette Nebula in the constellation Monoceros. The cluster formed within a large, circular region of gas and dust that has been sculpted by the winds and radiation from the young, massive stars within it. The intense ultraviolet radiation from these stars causes the surrounding hydrogen gas to glow, creating the vibrant nebula. NGC 2244 is home to numerous hot, young stars and is a region of active star formation, making it a captivating celestial object for astronomers and astrophotographers alike.
Location of Caldwell 50
NGC 2244 is an open star cluster located within the Rosette Nebula in the constellation Monoceros. The constellation Monoceros is situated south of Orion’s Belt and to the west of Sirius, the Dog Star. Positioned in a conspicuous region of active star formation, NGC 2244 is a striking celestial object that contributes to the overall beauty of the night sky.
Unique facts
- NGC 2244 is not just an open star cluster; it is intricately associated with the Rosette Nebula. The cluster formed within a large, circular region of gas and dust that has been shaped by the powerful winds and radiation from its young, massive stars.
- NGC 2244 is situated in a region of active star formation. The intense ultraviolet radiation emitted by the hot, young stars within the cluster triggers the surrounding hydrogen gas to glow, creating the visually stunning Rosette Nebula.
- NGC 2244 has been the subject of numerous astronomical observations, including high-resolution images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope. These images reveal the intricate details of the cluster and the surrounding nebula, providing valuable insights into stellar formation processes.
- The spatial dimensions of NGC 2244 span a considerable distance. The cluster itself is about 5 million years old, and it contains a diverse population of stars, ranging from massive, hot blue stars to cooler, less massive ones. The overall region of the Rosette Nebula is approximately 5,000 light-years away from Earth.
Brightness and size
NGC 2244, located within the Rosette Nebula, exhibits a moderate brightness, spans several dozen light-years in physical size, and presents varying apparent sizes based on observers’ locations and equipment, showcasing its celestial beauty.
