NGC 7822 is a spectacular region of space located in the constellation Cepheus. It is a nebula that is filled with gas and dust, and is known to be a very active place where new stars are born. If you like images of space with stunning shapes and colors, NGC 7822 is a great example.
Inside this nebula, there is a cluster of young, hot stars that emit a large amount of radiation. This radiation “blows” the gas and dust, creating interesting shapes like pillars and arcs, resembling giant towers stretching out into the vacuum of space. These structures are very similar to the famous “Pillars of Creation” in the Eagle Nebula, and are formed because the stars forming in the nebula are sculpting their surroundings with their energy.
NGC 7822 is also interesting because within these pillars and dense gas clouds, new stars are forming. Some of these stars are still in the process of being born, hidden within the dust cloud. In essence, NGC 7822 is like a star factory in full operation.
This object is quite far from us, about 3,000 light-years away.