Is it a romantic day or one invented by greeting card companies and sellers of luxury goods? It certainly isn't an astronomical holiday, but whatever your view of the day, you can enjoy this selection of cosmic valentines.

Astronomical Valentines

Heart-shaped feature in Arabia Terra imaged by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter

Valentine's Day is no assurance that love is in the air. Hearts and flowers aren't guaranteed to come your way. You may or may not get one of the billion valentine cards that are sent each year. But heart shapes are everywhere and anyone can admire them. Here is a another cosmic selection for everyone.

Cosmic Valentines

In the Heart of the Heart Nebula, there's a heartlike shape. It even glows in red light as nearby stars energize hydrogen gas. The nebula is about 7500 light years away in the constellation Cassiopeia.

photos sure are beautiful.