Iris Nebula (NGC 7023)
Iris Nebula (NGC 7023) is a reflection nebula in the constellation Cepheus, magnitude 7.2 (blue), 18′ across.
A reflection nebula in Cepheus lit by a 7th-magnitude star at its center; dark skies show a soft glow around the star. Filters do not help, and its intricate dust shows only in photographs.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around September, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in August). It can be seen from everywhere north of 22°S and never sets north of 22°N.
At its highest it stands 72° up from 50°N, 57° up from 35°N, 22° up from the equator, below the horizon from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Reflection nebula
- Constellation
- Cepheus
- Designations
- NGC 7023, C 4
- Magnitude
- 7.2 (blue)
- Apparent size
- 18′
- Position
- RA 21h 1.6m, Dec +68° 10′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when Iris Nebula (NGC 7023) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.