The Cocoon Nebula 🐛, also known as IC 5146, is a reflection and emission nebula located in the constellation Cygnus. It lies about 3,300 light-years from Earth and spans approximately 15 light-years. The nebula is named for its cocoon-like appearance, with a bright central region where new stars are forming. Surrounding the central area is a dark molecular cloud that obscures parts of the nebula, adding to its distinctive shape. The central star of the Cocoon Nebula provides the energy that lights up the surrounding gas and dust, creating its characteristic glow. Gear used: Camera: ZWO ASI2600MC Duo APS-C Cooled Color Astronomy Camera from agenaastro Telescope: Celestron 11” EDGE HD Mount: Skywatcher EQ6 R pro Autoguider: Orion Starshoot Software: Pixinsight Integration data: 3.5 hours of light frames, each sub at 180 seconds 40 darks, each at 180 seconds 40 bias No flats #CocoonNebula #IC5146 #Astronomy #Space #Nebula #StarFormation #CosmicWonder #Astrophotography #Stargazing ...