NGC 2264 - Cone Nebula
The Cone Nebula is a dark nebula within a larger HII region, named for its distinctive cone shape. It's part of the Christmas Tree Cluster complex.
Distance: 2,700 light-years
Apparent Size: 10' cone
Constellation: Monoceros
Object Type: Dark Nebula + Emission Nebula
Key Features:
- Cone-shaped dark nebula
- Part of NGC 2264 complex
- Christmas Tree Cluster nearby
- Stellar winds shape structure
- Hubble Heritage target
Best Imaging Season: December - March
Optimal Integration: 12+ hours
