Christmas Tree Cluster Unfolds in Night Skies, NASA Reports

A Christmas-like view emerged in the night skies, according to the recent reports from NASA. The sightings are a rare event, considering Christmas is near to the US.

Americans are now set for the Christmas Holiday. More people are expected to travel by land and air, causing travel concerns or disruption. However, the winter storms and colder weather can likely threaten the travel conditions in the Christmas Holiday in the US.

In the night skies, Christmas can become more memorable with mesmerizing sightings. Recently, NASA discovered a bright 'Christmas Tree Cluster' that is known as the NGC 2264.

Christmas Tree Cluster Spotted by NASA

(Photo : by JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP via Getty Images)
Night Skies. A beautiful view of a Christmas Tree unfolded in the night skies, according to NASA reports. In the upcoming Holiday, it is expected that millions of Americans will travel to enjoy with their families. In addition, it is also likely that meteors can peak more than expected, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. To enjoy the best view, it is best to prepare a sleeping bag, camera, telescope and warm clothes as winter can bring colder temperatures.

The recent sightings showed colorful stars, showing a bright Christmas tree. NASA discovered the group of young bright stars that were considered 2,500 light-years away from the planet after being captured by the Chandra X-ray Observatory.

From the image, it appears like a green nebula. The stars are likely about 1 to 5 million years old. NASA explained that the said cluster of stars is considered smaller and larger than the Sun.

The green image shows the pine needle-looking of a Christmas tree. Unlike other old stars, the young stars can unfold strong flares while doing X-rays.

In addition, the NGC 2264 was enhanced based on the color choices and image rotation. It was rotated by 150 degrees, which shows the conical trees for Christmas.

Also Read: December Sky Events: From Geminid Meteor Shower, Winter Solstice To Full Cold Moon

Ursid Meteor Showers in December

This December, one of the most-awaited astronomical events is the Ursid meteor showers. The duration can range from December 13 to 24, which peaks unfolding on December 23.

The said meteor showers can unleash about five to 10 meteors per hour. People who want to see the showers should stay alert on December 23. Unlike other meteor showers, there are a few meteors per hour.

In addition, it is also likely that meteors can peak more than expected, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. To enjoy the best view, it is best to prepare a sleeping bag, camera, telescope and warm clothes as winter can bring colder temperatures.

The Planetary Society explained that the Ursid Meteor Shower can occur due to the 8P/Tuttle comet. People over the southern hemispheres can likely spot the said meteor showers, but it is more colorful in the Northern parts.

At night, the meteors are best to view. As the year ends, 2024 will have an amazing start of mesmerizing astronomical sightings for space lovers.