Messier 43 is a bright emission nebula located in the constellation Orion. It is part of the larger Orion Nebula complex and is situated about 1,600 light-years away from Earth. Messier 43 is known for its striking appearance, featuring a region of glowing gas and dust where new stars are forming. This nebula is often studied by astronomers because it provides insights into the processes of star formation. The intense radiation from nearby young stars ionizes the surrounding gas, causing it to emit light. Messier 43 is a popular target for both amateur and professional astronomers due to its beauty and significance in the study of stellar evolution.