description IC 405 Overview
IC 405, commonly known as the Flaming Star Nebula, is an emission and reflection nebula located in the northern constellation of Auriga. It is illuminated by the runaway star AE Aurigae, which is currently passing through the surrounding clouds of interstellar gas and dust. The nebula is situated approximately 1,500 light-years from Earth and exhibits a bluish glow from starlight reflecting off dust, alongside regions of faint red glowing gas. It is a frequent target for amateur astrophotographers due to its complex structure and coloration.
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What is IC 405 also known as?
IC 405 is commonly known as the Flaming Star Nebula, an emission and reflection nebula located in the constellation Auriga. Its striking appearance comes from the illumination provided by the star AE Aurigae.
What star illuminates the Flaming Star Nebula?
The Flaming Star Nebula is illuminated by AE Aurigae, a runaway star that passed through the region. AE Aurigae is an intensely hot star whose radiation causes surrounding gas to glow and nearby dust to reflect blue light.
Where is IC 405 located in the sky?
IC 405 is located in the constellation Auriga, making it observable from the Northern Hemisphere. It lies roughly 1,500 light-years from Earth.
What type of nebula is the Flaming Star Nebula?
IC 405 is both an emission and reflection nebula, meaning portions of it glow from ionized gas while other parts reflect starlight. This dual nature gives the Flaming Star Nebula its characteristic mix of red and bluish regions.
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