NGC 2264 • Sprightly Stars Illuminate 'Christmas Tree Cluster' • This composite image shows the Christmas Tree Cluster. The blue and white lights (which blink in the animated version of this image) are young stars that give off X-rays detected by NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory. Optical data from the National Science Foundation’s WIYN 0.9-meter telescope on Kitt Peak shows gas in the nebula in green, corresponding to the “pine needles” of the tree, and infrared data from the Two Micron All Sky

Experience the enchanting 'Christmas Tree Cluster,' NGC 2264, as its young stars blink like festive lights in this stunning video. Captured using data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and infrared imaging, this cosmic tree glows with X-ray-emitting stars and vibrant green nebular gas. Located 2,500 light-years from Earth, it’s a celestial celebration of light and color. #ChristmasTreeCluster #NGC2264 #StarCluster #Astrophotography #SpaceArt #CosmicBeauty #AstronomyLovers #StellarNursery #De

NASA this week released a new image of a celestial formation known as the "Christmas Tree Cluster." The stars appear to form the glowing shape of a tree. | CBS Sunday Morning

The Cone Nebula (also known as the Christmas Tree Nebula) is a striking pillar of interstellar gas and dust located in the constellation Monoceros, about 2,700 light-years from Earth. Part of the larger NGC 2264 region, it spans approximately 7 light-years and is shaped by intense radiation and stellar winds from nearby young, massive stars. Its iconic cone-like structure is a stunning example of cosmic sculpting in the universe. I captured this jewel in the bottle 3 skies of Williamsport, Tenne