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Iris Nebula - NGC7023

About this image

The Iris Nebula (also known as NGC 7023 or Caldwell 4) is a bright reflection nebula located about 1,300 light years from Earth in the constellation of Cepheus. The nebula is illuminated by a magnitude +7.4 star designated HD 200775. It is six light-years across.[1][2] The nebula was discovered in 1794 by Sir William Herschel, an astronomer, where it was then added to the New General Catalogue (NGC).[3] The nebula is a member of the Cepheus Flare. It is located near the Mira-type variable star T Cephei, and near the bright magnitude +3.23 variable star Beta Cephei (Alfirk). The designation NGC 7023 refers to the open cluster within the larger reflection nebula designated LBN 487.[2]

Behind the image

Finding the detail in the dust

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Image Details

Category
Nebula
Telescope
Williams Optics UltraCat 108
Location
Starfront Observatory, Rockwood,Texas
Captured
2026-09-12

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All are public; no membership is required. Guides follow Learn’s recommended workflow stages. RGB/LRGB and SHO/HOO are alternative paths; choose the path that fits your data. Some guides span stages, such as channel assembly and later LRGB blending or star restoration. Use this project’s recorded workflow for its actual order and settings.