Flaming Star Nebula (Caldwell 31) is an emission and reflection nebulae in the constellation Auriga north of the celestial equator. It surrounds the irregular variable star AE Aurigae. The nebula is about 5 light-years across.
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The hydrogen emission gas makes up the “flame” of IC 405, while the blue reflection nebula resembles smoke. The Flaming Star Nebula spans about 5 light-years across, with an apparent visual magnitude of +6.
The rippling dust and gas lanes of red and blue are what give the Flaming Star Nebula its name. The intensely bright star AE Aurigae is so hot that it is blue, and emits energetic light that knocks electrons away from the surrounding gas.
The nebula measures approximately 37.0' x 19.0', and lies about 1,500 light-years away from Earth. It is believed that the proper motion of the central star can be traced back to the Orion's Belt area.
Dedicated to my friend David, as he is a flaming star in my life.
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