The Iris Nebula (NGC 7023) is a reflection nebula located in the constellation Cepheus, about 1,300 light-years away from Earth. It is illuminated by a central young B-type star, HD 200775. The light reflects off the surrounding dust cloud, creating a unique blue glow. The dust particles in the nebula not only reflect starlight but also give the nebula its detailed structure and texture, resembling the petals of an iris flower, hence the name "Iris Nebula".

The dark nebula surrounding the Iris Nebula is a complex and dense molecular cloud, commonly known as LBN 487. These dark clouds are composed of large amounts of dust and cold gas, and emit very little light. They are mainly observed by blocking the light of stars behind them. These dark clouds appear as deep black or dark brown at the edges of the nebula, forming a striking contrast with the bright reflection nebula in the center. This dust cloud not only reflects the light from the central B-type star but also absorbs some of the visible light, creating a dark obscuring effect.