ESA ESO Image: Seagull Nebula IC 2177

This image shows the intricate structure of part of the Seagull Nebula, known more formally as IC 2177. 

These wisps of gas and dust are known as Sharpless 2-296 (officially Sh 2-296) and form part of the "wings" of the celestial bird. 

This region of the sky is a fascinating muddle of intriguing astronomical objects - a mix of dark and glowing red clouds, weaving amongst bright stars. 

This new view was captured by the Wide Field Imager on the MPG/ESO 2.2-metre telescope at ESO's La Silla Observatory in Chile. 

Credit: SEA, ESO