description Sh2-132 Overview
Sh2-132, commonly known as the Lion Nebula, is a large emission and diffuse nebula located in the constellation Cepheus. It is situated within the Cep OB1 stellar association, an active region of star formation. The nebula's complex gas structures are partly ionized by highly luminous Wolf-Rayet stars and massive O-type giants, producing the striking visual contrast of glowing gas and dark dust filaments that characterize deep-space astrophotography targets.
help Sh2-132 FAQ
Why is Sh2-132 called the Lion Nebula?
In wide-field images, its arcs of glowing gas suggest a lion's head and mane. The nickname is descriptive rather than an official catalogue designation; astronomers catalogue it as Sharpless 2-132.
What makes the Lion Nebula glow?
Ultraviolet radiation from massive hot stars ionizes the surrounding hydrogen and oxygen. Wolf-Rayet stars in the region contribute powerful radiation and stellar winds that sculpt the gas.
Where is Sh2-132 located?
The nebula lies in the constellation Cepheus within the Cepheus OB1 association. It occupies a large area of sky near the boundary with Lacerta and is best captured with wide-field astrophotography.
Which filters work well for photographing Sh2-132?
Hydrogen-alpha and oxygen-III filters reveal complementary structures in its emission. A narrowband HOO or SHO workflow can separate the hydrogen-rich outer arcs from oxygen-emitting regions under light-polluted skies.
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