Little Eyes.

Around the world, different cultures have different names for M-45. Most commonly used are the "Pleiades," or the "Seven Sisters." Other names include Subaru and Matariki. Matariki is the name given by the Maori of New Zealand. This loosely means 'little eyes.' While the names and legends are widely varied, one common thread runs true. Many cultures did, or still do, use these stars as a seasonal marker, the heliacal (pre-dawn) rising often denoting the start of a new year. In the southern hemisphere, this coincides roughly with the winter solstice, and is celebrated with feasting and fire festivals. The cluster itself is full of young, hot stars that are illuminating a cloud of dust with pale blue light. Photo details: Canon 350D, 80 second exposure with a Sigma 70-200mm lens, ISO 800 @ f-2.8.

 Image taken October 20th 2006