A bit more than one degree north west from Zeta Scorpii or NGC 6231 lies this massive structure of cosmic dust. Its shape resembles a dark tower emerging from the star field background. Within the top of the tower the image shows some reflection nebula exited by intense radiation of hot O-type stars. Typical of Cometary Globules are the stellar winds coming from the head towards the tail. The energetic ultraviolet light also powers the bordering reddish glow of hydrogen gas.
Image taken using a TMB 92 SS Triplet APO and QSI 583 WS riding in a NEQ6 Mount, for a total exposure of four hours LHaRGB (30,120,30,30,30) from Córdoba, Argentina.