Drifting near the Milky Way Galaxy, these dust-filled molecular clouds appear as if they are lending a helping hand on a cosmic scale. These interstellar clouds, which host the birth of stars, form part of a regional structure and include LDN 1358, 1357 and 1355, which were included in the Catalog of Dark Nebulae published by American astronomer Beverly Lynds in 1962.

Located about 3,000 light-years away, among the bright star fields of the northern constellation of the Queen (Cassiopeia), these dark nebulae are a challenging target for space observers. However, at more than 80 light-years across, they offer astronomers a valuable opportunity to explore the mysteries of star formation.

November 8, 2024 Astronomy Photo of the Day (NASA APOD)

Image Source & Copyright: Francesco Radici