NGC 2023 is a bright reflection nebula located in the constellation of Orion. It is part of a larger complex of nebulae, including the well-known Orion Nebula, and is situated near the star Betelgeuse. The nebula is approximately 1,500 light-years away from Earth. This nebula is characterized by its striking blue color, which is caused by the scattering of light from nearby stars. NGC 2023 is often studied by astronomers to understand the processes of star formation and the interactions between stars and their surrounding gas and dust.