The Pleiades and Merope Nebula
Located in Taurus is a nearby and brightly shining star cluster called The Pleiades where the young stars faintly light a reflection nebula known as the Merope nebula. The distinct blue color is highlighted in this 2 degree wide photograph of The Pleiades which goes by the Messier designation of M45. The cluster has been known to most cultures throughout time and is sometimes called 'The Seven Sisters'. The bright cluster visible in the north in winter is easily spotted by the naked eye even within cities. Through time the cluster has been used as a test of the resolving power of one's eyes as it shines brightly in the winter skies.
Copyright Mark E. Johnston Creative Commons license by-nc-nd