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Description:
IC 405 – The Flaming Star Nebula – is a stunning emission and reflection nebula in the constellation Auriga, located about 1,500 light-years away. It spans approximately 5 light-years and glows due to the intense radiation from the hot, massive O-type star AE Aurigae.
This star is a runaway star, likely ejected from the Orion region millions of years ago. As it moves through interstellar gas and dust, it ionizes the surrounding hydrogen, creating the nebula’s fiery red glow, while the blue regions result from reflected starlight.
