The Flaming Star Nebula

The Flaming Star Nebula (IC405) is illuminated by the nearby star, AE Aurigae. This emission and reflection nebula lies about 1,500 light years from us. In the northern latitudes, the optimal time of year to photograph the Flaming Star Nebula is in the fall or early winter.

Specifications:

Designation: IC405

Known As: The Flaming Star Nebula

Apparent Size: 50′ x 30′

Magnitude (lower is brighter): 10.0

Distance from Earth: 1,500 LY

Springtime Image from the Backyard

The image above was taken in a Bortle 7 sky using the ZWO Duo-Band Filter. The Moon was quite bright, so the filter definitely help to cut out unwanted light.

ACQUISITION
Integration Time: 2.8 hours
RGB: 34 x 300sec
BIN: 1×1
Gain: 110
Temperature: -10° C
Bortle Scale: 7

CALIBRATION
Darks: 10
Flats: 30
Dark Flats: 30
Offset/Bias: 60

Hydrogen Alpha Data
Oxygen III Data

The Auriga Constellation

Auriga (Charioteer) is a smaller constellation, neighboring Gemini and Taurus. It is visible in the northern hemisphere during winter. The mythological drawing is often a person holding a goat, kids, and the reins of a chariot.

Auriga also includes three star clusters, M36, M37, and M38. They are visible using a pair of binoculars as fuzzy spots.

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*General information regarding constellations, galaxies, nebulae, and planets have been sourced from: AstroBackyard, VisibleDark, Wikipedia, EarthSky, and NASA.

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