Christmas Tree Nebula

Christmas Tree Nebula

The Christmas Tree Nebula, known as NGC 2264, is a prominent star-forming region located in the constellation Monoceros, approximately 2,700 light-years from Earth. It is renowned for its striking resemblance to a festive Christmas tree, formed by a cluster of young, bright stars arranged in a triangular shape that mimics the tree's branches. At the top of this cosmic tree sits the dramatic Cone Nebula, a towering column of gas and dust illuminated by nearby stars, while below it spreads the swirling, textured Fox Fur Nebula, adding to the festive appearance. This vast region spans nearly 80 light-years and showcases the dynamic interplay between newborn stars and the interstellar material they shape.