Nestled within the vastness of the Milky Way, approximately 2,500 light-years away from our planet, NGC 2264 has captured the imaginations of astronomers and stargazers alike. This cosmic wonder, consisting of stars aged between 1 and 5 million years old, bears an uncanny resemblance to a Christmas tree adorned with bright lights. NASA, in its announcement on Tuesday, shared a composite image showcasing the intricate details of this festive celestial display.
“The stars in NGC 2264 vary in size, ranging from some with less than a tenth the mass of the Sun to others containing about seven solar masses,” NASA explained on its website.
