Image taken in February 2017 with a Takahashi FSQ 106
SBIG 8300 LRGB with Baader filters.
About the Nebula:
At a distance of 1200 light years, the Horse Head Nebula is located in
the constellation Orion. Designated as IC 434 it can be found just
below the lower star in Orion’s belt, Zeta Orionis. Although the
nebula itself is invisible through most telescopes, it shows up on long
time exposures. The red glowing gas results from hot young stars
which give off ultraviolet radiation. This radiation ionizes the
surrounding gas cloud causing it go glow red. The horse head shape
results from a dark gas cloud in front of the red gas cloud.