Barnard 168 is a dark nebula located in the constellation of Ophiuchus. It is part of a larger molecular cloud complex and is known for its dense concentration of dust and gas, which obscures light from stars behind it. This makes it a fascinating object for astronomers studying star formation. The nebula is approximately 400 light-years away from Earth and spans about 2.5 light-years across. Barnard 168 is often observed in the context of stellar nurseries, where new stars are born from the material within such clouds. Its distinct shape and darkness make it a popular target for astrophotography.