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The Eagle Nebula, or M16, is 7,000 light years from Earth in the constellation Serpens. It is composed of dark columns of cool, dark clouds of gas and dust. These clouds consist primarily of hydrogen, although there are also a few carbon and silicate particles present, similar to those found in terrestrial rocks. Because these molecules are so dense, they have survived longer than their surrounding environment as they have been bombarded by the ultraviolet light emitted by hot, massive young stars. This light also illuminates the surface of the gaseous columns, highlighting the three dimensional beauty of the structures. The tallest of the pillars is about one light year long from top to bottom. The ultraviolet light slowly erodes the pillars, replacing them with globules of denser gas. These globules, buried well within the pillars, are known by the acronym EGGs (Evaporating Gaseous Globules). This name suits the structure well, because these globules serve as the embryos for newborn stars, many of which are much more massive than our Sun. Although the nebula itself will disappear with time, it will leave behind a multitude of stars that will join the rest of our Galaxy. (Courtesy of NASA's Hubble Space Telescope.)
References:
http://seds.lpl.arizona.edu:80/billa/twn/n6611x.html

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