the iris nebula in the constellation cepheus

The Iris is a reflection nebula. Its a great example of an open star cluster associated with a reflection neubla. The beautiful blue reflections of the Iris Nebula - NGC 7023 - are caused by light being reflected off of the gas and dust of the nebula from the very bright star HD 200775 which can be seen in the center of the nebula. It is about 6 light years across and about 1,300 light years away.