description Dolphin-Head Nebula Overview
The Dolphin-Head Nebula, also designated Sh2-308, is an emission nebula within the larger Canis Major wolf-rayet nebula complex. This distinctive bubble shape arises from powerful stellar winds emanating from the WR star EZ Canis Majoris. Astronomers and amateur observers studying star formation, particularly those interested in Wolf-Rayet stars and their impact on surrounding gas clouds, find it a valuable object for observation and research.
insights Ranking position
Dolphin-Head Nebula ranks #119 of 565 in the Nebula ranking, behind Cone Nebula, ahead of RCW 120.
help Dolphin-Head Nebula FAQ
What created the Dolphin-Head Nebula's bubble shape?
Fast stellar winds from the Wolf-Rayet star EZ Canis Majoris swept slower material into a bubble. NASA describes Sh2-308 as roughly 60 light-years across.
Where is the Dolphin-Head Nebula located?
Sh2-308 lies in the constellation Canis Major, south of Sirius in the sky. Its distance is uncertain, but it is commonly placed at around 5,000 light-years from Earth.
Can the Dolphin-Head Nebula be seen through an ordinary telescope?
It is extremely faint visually and is much easier to record photographically. Astrophotographers commonly use narrowband filters that isolate doubly ionized oxygen, which produces the nebula's familiar blue-green appearance.
Are Sh2-308 and the Dolphin-Head Nebula the same object?
Yes. It is also cataloged as Sharpless 308, RCW 11, and LBN 1052, while Dolphin-Head Nebula is its descriptive popular name.
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