# Cluster + nebula

A young star cluster still embedded in the cloud of gas it formed from, which its stars make glow.

Stars are born in clusters inside clouds of gas. For a few million years the youngest, hottest stars light up the leftover gas as an [emission nebula](https://astropilot.space/glossary/emission-nebula), so we see the [cluster](https://astropilot.space/glossary/open-cluster) and its nebula together. The Eagle Nebula (M 16) and the Orion Nebula with its [Trapezium](https://astropilot.space/glossary/multiple-star) are the best known.

**Examples:** [M16](https://astropilot.space/object/M16.md), [M42](https://astropilot.space/object/M42.md), [NGC1977](https://astropilot.space/object/NGC1977.md), [NGC2264](https://astropilot.space/object/NGC2264.md)

**Related:** [Emission nebula](https://astropilot.space/glossary/emission-nebula.md), [Open cluster](https://astropilot.space/glossary/open-cluster.md), [Nebula filter](https://astropilot.space/glossary/nebula-filter.md)

From the AstroPilot astronomy glossary: https://astropilot.space/glossary/cluster-nebula