NGC 3576
NGC 3576, also known as the Statue of Liberty Nebula, is a bright emission nebula located in the constellation Centaurus. It is approximately 9,000 light-years away from Earth and is part of a larger region of star formation. The nebula is characterized by its striking shape and vibrant colors, which are produced by the ionization of gas and dust by nearby young stars.
The nebula is about 5 light-years across and contains several massive stars that contribute to its luminosity. NGC 3576 is an excellent example of the complex processes involved in stellar birth and evolution, making it a subject of interest for astronomers studying the life cycles of stars.