Right ascension 04 41.0 Constellation Taurus | Declination +25° 52′ | |
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Designations HCL 2, Heiles's cloud 2, TMC-1, Taurus Molecular Cloud 1 | ||
The Taurus molecular cloud 1 (often abbreviated TMC-1) is a giant molecular cloud in the constellation of Taurus.
The cloud is notable for containing many complex molecules, including cyanopolyynes HCnN for n=3,5,7,9.
The Taurus Molecular Cloud is only 140 pc (430 ly) away from earth, making it the nearest large star formation region. It also reveals characteristics that make it ideal for detailed physical studies. It has been important in star formation studies at all wavelengths.
References
Taurus Molecular Cloud 1 Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA