description Lion Nebula Overview
The Lion Nebula, catalogued as Sharpless 2-132, is a large emission nebula and H II region in the constellation Cepheus. Its gas is energized by ultraviolet radiation from massive hot stars, including Wolf-Rayet and OB-type stars, producing the ionized hydrogen emission commonly recorded in deep-sky photographs. Located roughly 10,000 light-years from Earth, it is a faint, extended target whose arcs and cloud structures are most clearly revealed through long exposures and narrowband imaging.
help Lion Nebula FAQ
What catalog number is the Lion Nebula and where is it located?
The Lion Nebula is catalogued as Sharpless 2-132 (Sh2-132), a diffuse emission nebula in the constellation Cepheus. It lies roughly 10,400 light-years from Earth.
What ionizing stars power the Lion Nebula's emission?
Sh2-132 is energized by Wolf-Rayet stars and hot OB-type supergiants embedded within the nebula. These massive stars emit intense ultraviolet radiation that causes the surrounding hydrogen gas to glow in characteristic red H-alpha wavelengths.
Can the Lion Nebula be photographed with a DSLR and narrowband filter?
Yes, Sh2-132 is a popular narrowband imaging target for astrophotographers using H-alpha, OIII, and SII filters. Its relatively dim surface brightness benefits from long exposures and dark-sky or narrowband imaging from light-polluted areas.
Is the Lion Nebula visible through a backyard telescope visually?
Visually, Sh2-132 is very faint and typically requires a large-aperture telescope (12+ inches) and an H-beta or UHC filter under dark skies. Most observers find it easier to capture photographically than to see by eye.
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