1st May, 2024
Image Source: John Hayes
CHIRANJIT MITRA
The nebula's shape resembles the head and neck of a majestic horse.
It lies about 1,500 light-years from Earth, a neighbor (cosmically speaking) to Orion's famous belt.
The Horsehead is best observed in infrared light, which can penetrate the obscuring dust.
The young, bright stars within the nebula erode the nebula’s shape, sculpting its iconic form.
Strong stellar winds will eventually disperse the Horsehead Nebula, its shape ever-evolving.
Discovered in 1888 by Scottish astronomer Williamina Fleming, but gained widespread attention later.