Rafha: A photograph taken yesterday over Al Nafud Alkabir, south of Rafha in Northern Borders Region, captured the Horsehead Nebula, a well-known dark nebula in the Milky Way, in a striking astronomical scene.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Burjes Al-Fleih, a member of Afaq Society for Astronomy, stated that the nebula, located in the constellation Orion at a distance of about 1,500 light-years, consists of dense dust and gas that block the light behind them, causing it to appear as a dark cloud with the distinctive shape of a horse's head.

Al-Fleih explained that the red glow surrounding the nebula comes from an emission nebula composed mostly of hydrogen, which takes on this color as the gas becomes ionized by nearby stars.

He further noted that the observation area also contains several bright stars, including Alnitak, one of Orion's Belt stars, while the Flame Nebula, known for its fire-like appearance, appears to the side.

The skies of Northern Borders Region are currently attracting strong interest from astronomy enthusiasts, as clear conditions and low light pollution across wide areas provide a favorable environment for capturing and accurately documenting cosmic phenomena.