The Tulip Nebula, also known as Sh2-101, is a visually striking emission nebula located about 6,000 light-years away in the constellation Cygnus. This nebula is an active star-forming region, housing many young and energetic stars. It is named for its flower-like appearance, which resembles a blooming tulip seen in silhouette against the bright backdrop of space.

The Tulip Nebula spans roughly 70 by 55 light-years in size. Its vibrant colors and shapes are primarily due to the ionization of hydrogen gas by the intense ultraviolet radiation from the young stars within and around the nebula. These energetic processes give the Tulip Nebula its luminous glow and complex structure, highlighting the dynamic and ongoing nature of star birth in our galaxy.