APOD 2.6

When traveling in intergalactic space make sure to be cautious around the Orion Molecular cloud complex inside the Horsehead Nebula. This is where the flame nebula is located at. The flame nebula is not exactly a big billowing fire. It is more of gas and dust that are reflecting off the star Alnitak which is located on the right side of the screen as a big glowing blue ball. The light from the star energize the electrons inside the hydrogen gas in the flame nebula and then glows when the electrons and ionized hydrogen gas recombine. This picture was taken in infrared light. Its very interesting how little things in the solar system can create such beauty.