Near-infrared observations of NGC 2024: identification of a 2- m source within a dense core

We have detected a 2-µm continuum source within one of the six dense cores in NGC 2024 found by Mezger et al. and interpreted as cold, isothermal protostars. The new source is highly reddened $$(H-K \ge 3.8)$$ and quite faint $$(S_K = 8.3 \times 10^{-15}\enspace \text{Wm}^{-2} \enspace\mu\text m^{-1})$$ and provides clear evidence that at least one of these cores contains a hot, embedded young star. Accompanying the point-like near-infrared source is a compact unipolar nebula which has features common to the infrared reflection nebulae associated with outflows from young sources.