Orion Molecular Cloud
The Orion Molecular Cloud is a large region of gas and dust located in the Orion constellation. It is one of the closest star-forming regions to Earth, situated about 1,344 light-years away. This cloud contains several well-known features, including the Orion Nebula, where new stars are actively forming.
The cloud is rich in molecular hydrogen and other compounds, making it a prime area for studying the processes of star formation. Astronomers use various telescopes, including infrared and radio, to observe the cloud and gain insights into the birth and evolution of stars and planetary systems.