NGC 2170, often referred to as the Angel Nebula, is a stunning reflection nebula in the constellation Monoceros, located approximately 2,700 light-years away. Unlike emission nebulae, which glow due to ionized gas, reflection nebulae shine by scattering and reflecting the light of nearby stars. In this case, NGC 2170 is part of a larger star-forming region filled with dense interstellar dust and young, hot stars. The dust grains within the nebula efficiently scatter shorter wavelengths of light, giving it a distinctive blue appearance, while surrounding regions exhibit warmer hues due to embedded red and yellow stars.

This nebula is part of the Monoceros R2 molecular cloud, a region rich in young stellar objects and active star formation. Infrared observations reveal hidden protostars still embedded in their natal cocoons of gas and dust. The presence of dark lanes cutting through the nebula suggests the influence of powerful stellar winds and radiation, slowly shaping the surrounding structures. NGC 2170 serves as a striking example of the interplay between interstellar dust and starlight, offering a glimpse into the intricate processes that govern star formation in our galaxy.