SH2-168 is a striking nebula in the constellation Cassiopeia, about 5,200 light-years from Earth. It’s a part of the Sharpless catalog, a collection of bright nebulae that emit light due to ionized hydrogen. Often nicknamed a “star nursery,” SH2-168 is a stellar birthplace where young, hot stars ignite and light up the surrounding gas.
This nebula is a region filled with hydrogen gas, which glows in red and pink hues when it’s ionized (charged) by radiation from young, massive stars. This radiation strips electrons from hydrogen atoms, which later recombine, releasing energy in the form of colorful light. The main source of this illumination is thought to be an energetic B-type star, known for its intense ultraviolet radiation. This radiation “excites” the nebula, leading to the glowing effect that astronomers observe.
SH2-168 lies near the more prominent Heart and Soul Nebulae and is part of the Perseus Arm of the Milky Way, one of the galaxy’s spiral arms rich in star-forming regions. Although it’s not as widely photographed as some neighboring nebulae, SH2-168’s intriguing patterns and colors attract both amateur and professional astronomers who seek to capture its beauty.
Studying SH2-168 and similar nebulae helps scientists understand star formation, the life cycle of gas clouds, and the influence of massive stars on their surroundings. As these young stars evolve, they sculpt and disperse the gas, often leading to the formation of new stars. This ongoing cycle of creation within SH2-168 offers a small glimpse into the dynamic processes that shape galaxies over millions of years.
Capture Details:
Telescope: Celestron Nexstar 8se
Reducer/Flattener: Celestron .63x Reducer/Flattener
Filter: Optolong L-Pro Optolong L-Extreme
Camera: ZWO ASI294 MC Pro
Mount: Skywatcher EQM-35 Pro
Total Time: 7 hours 38 minutes
Capture Software: N.I.N.A.
Guiding: PHD2, ZWO asi120mm mini, ZWO OAG-L
Processed in: PixInsight
Additional details on Astrobin.com.