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Object name
IC443 and IC444

Constellation:Gemini
Distance: 5 000 light years
Imaged by Jean-Yves Beninger from Alqueva Dark Sky, Portugal
On 21,22 and 23 December 2024

Equipment:
Astro-Physics Mach1
Astro-Physics AP130 Starfire EDF with 2.7" field flattener 67PF562, 819mm
Camera Zwo ASI 2600MM pixel size 3.76µ
Filters R, G, B, S, H, O
SHO image

IC 443, also known as the Jellyfish Nebula, is a supernova remnant in the constellation Gemini, approximately 5,000 light-years from Earth.

Below IC 443 in this image lies IC 444, a less well-known but equally fascinating nebula. Unlike its turbulent neighbor, IC 444 is a reflection nebula—illuminated by the light of nearby stars rather than the violent energy of a supernova. The interaction between these two cosmic structures creates a striking visual contrast, as the chaotic remnants of IC 443 seem to spill into the calmer, more diffuse expanse of IC 444.