Object Analysis

The Flaming Star Nebula (IC 405) is an emission and reflection nebula in the constellation Auriga, surrounding the blue variable star AE Aurigae. It shines at magnitude +6.0. The nebula is about 1,500 light-years away and spans about 5 light-years.

The star AE Aurigae is a "runaway star"—it was likely ejected from the Orion Nebula region about 2 million years ago. It is currently passing through a chance cloud of gas and dust. The high-energy light from the star ionizes the hydrogen gas, causing it to glow red, while the dust reflects the star's blue light.

This combination creates a stunning visual contrast of red and blue/purple hues. The specific "flaming" appearance comes from the intricate ripples and folds in the gas, sculpted by the intense stellar wind from the runaway star as it plows through the interstellar medium.