Monkey Head Nebula NGC 2174

"The Monkey Head Nebula, also known as Sharpless 252, is an emission nebula located in constellation Orion approximately 6,400 light-years from Earth

 

Structure and Appearance

This nebula is composed of towering pillars of gas and dust, shaped by stellar winds and intense radiation from nearby young, massive stars. It has regions that are actively forming stars.

 

Color Composition

The nebula emits light in various wavelengths, with colors mainly dominated by hydrogen (red), oxygen (blue-green), and sulfur (red).

 

Star Formation

Deep within the Monkey Head Nebula, clusters of young, newly forming stars are surrounded by dense clouds of gas. The intense radiation from these stars shapes and erodes surrounding material, creating a dynamic and evolving structure.

 

Discovery

First cataloged by William Herschel in the 18th century."

 

Askar 120APO with .8 reducer: 660mm f/5.5

ZWO ASI533MM Mono Camera at -30C

Guided on ZWO AM5

21xHa, 28xOiii, 24xSii @5m

Captured with ZWO ASIAIR processed with PixInsight, Ps

 

Done