Sharpless 2-140 (Sh 2-140) is a glowing emission nebula located about 3,000 light-years away in the constellation Cepheus. It is part of a larger star-forming region, where new stars are being born. Sh 2-140 is fueled by the intense ultraviolet radiation from young, hot stars embedded in the nebula. This radiation excites the surrounding gas, making it glow brightly, a characteristic feature of emission nebulae.
The nebula’s heart contains a cluster of massive stars known as the IRS 1 association, which plays a crucial role in shaping the region. These stars drive stellar winds that push gas and dust outward, creating bubbles and arcs of material within the nebula. The presence of these winds also triggers the formation of more stars in nearby dense clouds, a process called “triggered star formation.”
Sh 2-140 is of interest to astronomers because it provides a laboratory for studying the early stages of star formation. The nebula’s bright regions contrast with darker areas where thick dust clouds block visible light, revealing the complexity of star-forming environments. Observations of Sh 2-140 across different wavelengths, such as infrared and radio, help scientists peer through the dust to study young stars and protostars (stars in the making) still hidden inside.
In summary, Sharpless 2-140 is a vivid example of a stellar nursery, showcasing the dynamic processes of star birth, the role of radiation from massive stars, and the complex interactions between gas and dust in space.
Capture Details:
Telescope: William Optics Z73
Reducer/Flattener: William Optics Flat6aiii
Filter: Optolong L-Pro Optolong L-Extreme
Camera: ZWO ASI183MC Pro
Mount: Skywatcher EQM-35 Pro
Total Captured: Optolong L-Extreme Optolong L-Pro
Total Time: 4 hours 57 minutes
Capture Software: N.I.N.A.
Guiding: PHD2, ZWO asi120mm mini
Processed in: PixInsight
Additional details on Astrobin.com.