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The Iris Nebula is a bright reflection nebula in the constellation Cepheus. Surrounding it is a region of faintly glowing interstellar dust and gas that also contains some dark nebulae. Note, for example, the especially opaque dark patch at the top center of the image. The tiny separate reflection nebula to the upper right of the Iris is known as GN 21.02.4.02, the GN signifying that it is part of the catalogue known as Atlas of Galactic Nebulae.