Heavenly Flower.

In the constellation of Monoceros sits the open cluster NGC 2442. This group of 16 stars is relatively young by celestial standards. Evidence for this can be seen in the surrounding cloud of ionised hydrogen. The cloud glows pink under the radiation from the hot stars at the centre. This cloud, NGC 2237, is better known as the Rosette Nebula. Photo details: Canon 350D, 5 minute exposure with a Sigma 70-200mm lens, ISO 400 @ f-2.8.

 Image taken October 21st 2006