The Rosette Nebula, cataloged as NGC 2237, is a large, circular H II region located in the constellation Monoceros.

It is an active star-forming region within the Milky Way, characterized by its distinctive rose-like shape. The nebula is illuminated by the energetic radiation emitted by a cluster of young, hot stars at its center, known as the Rosette Cluster or NGC 2244.

Composed primarily of hydrogen gas, interspersed with traces of other elements such as oxygen and sulfur, the Rosette Nebula is a site of ongoing star formation. Within its dense clouds of gas and dust, new stars are born, surrounded by glowing nebular material.

Photographer: Ronan Hunt
Full Resolution: 4067x2793 pix, Unlimited Edition Jpeg
Image Credit: Ronan Hunt