NGC 7023 was observed 18 October 1794 by
William Herschel. It is located about 3.5 degrees south west of
Beta Cephei (Alfirk). This is a wonderful example of a
reflection nebula. Its unusual structure gave rise to the name,
the Iris Nebula. The nebula is illuminated by light for a Mag
6.8 star (HD200775) in its center. The bright blue light seen
here is due to light being reflected off dust particles that
survived the star's birth. There are faint hints of red color
surrounding the central star. This is evidence of some hydrogen
emission taking place. There is also and open cluster of stars
associated with NGC 7023 that is known as Collinder 427. This
loose open cluster is located on the west side of the reflection
nebula within the dark region above the "petal" structure of the
Iris.
