This image of the Rosette or NGC2244 was taken on the 01/03/2025 with the SeeStar S50 in mosaic mode. this is the direct live view image only mildly smoothed prior to exporting. Of course this is only 10s images stacked in the SeeStar. The sky conditions were OK with minimal cloud in the initial time but clouded near the end.
The Rosette Nebula in the constellation Monoceros surrounding thee open cluster NGC2244. This is a young, bright cluster of stars that formed from the surrounding nebula’s gas and dust.
Key Facts about NGC 2244:
- Type: Open Star Cluster
- Constellation: Monoceros
- Distance: ~5,200 light-years from Earth
- Age: ~2 million years (very young in astronomical terms)
- Associated Nebula: Rosette Nebula (a large H II region)
- Notable Features:
- Contains massive, hot O-type and B-type stars that emit intense ultraviolet radiation.
- This radiation ionizes the surrounding gas, causing the nebula to glow and making it a stunning deep-sky object.
- The strong stellar winds from the cluster’s stars are pushing away the surrounding gas, shaping the nebula over time.
Observing NGC 2244:
- It is visible with small telescopes or binoculars, especially under dark skies.
- Best seen in the winter months (December to February) in the Northern Hemisphere.
- The Rosette Nebula itself is best captured in long-exposure astrophotography, as it is faint to the naked eye.
Would you like any specific details about NGC 2244?
