NGC 1974 is an open star cluster located in the constellation of Monoceros, which is also known as the Unicorn. It is situated approximately 1,600 light-years away from Earth and is part of the Orion molecular cloud complex. The cluster contains several young, hot stars that are primarily blue in color. Discovered by John Herschel in 1834, NGC 1974 is notable for its relatively loose structure and the presence of bright stars. It is often studied by astronomers to understand the formation and evolution of star clusters, as well as the dynamics of stellar populations within them.