LDN 43 is a dense molecular cloud located in the constellation Ophiuchus, approximately 520 light-years away. This region is a prime site of star formation, where collapsing gas and dust give birth to young stars. The dark nebula, cataloged in the Lynds Dark Nebula (LDN) catalog, obscures the background starlight due to its high concentration of dust, creating an intricate web of cosmic shadows.

Embedded within LDN 43 is the young stellar object RNO 91, a protostar surrounded by an accretion disk, which emits jets of gas that interact with the surrounding cloud. The region also contains bright reflection nebulae where scattered starlight illuminates the dust. This image in RGB reveals the contrast between the dark, opaque dust and the faint glow of reflected light, offering a glimpse into the complex processes of star birth hidden within this cosmic nursery.