Located in the constellation Taurus, this austere region is characterized by an area of dark, dusty nebulae. The members of the multiple star systems seen in different locations throughout the image are forming in the Taurus molecular cloud complex, about 450 light-years away. These stars, born only a few million years ago, are in the early stages of stellar evolution and are in the final stages of gravitational collapse. These young celestial bodies, called T-Tauri stars, usually shine dimly and with a yellowish color. V773 (aka HD283447), one of the brightest T-Tauri stars in the constellation Taurus, is located near the center of the telescopic image. Looking upward, there is a dense, dark area known as Barnard 209.

January 10, 2025 Astronomy Photo of the Day (NASA APOD)

Image Source & Copyright: Long Xin