description Sharpless 2-1 Overview
help Sharpless 2-1 FAQ
What kind of object is Sharpless 2-1?
Sharpless 2-1 is an emission nebula, meaning glowing gas is energized by nearby stars. It is part of the catalog of H II regions in the Milky Way.
Who cataloged Sharpless 2-1?
It was cataloged by American astronomer Stewart Sharpless. The object appeared in his 1959 survey of Milky Way H II regions.
What does the Sh2 designation mean in Sharpless 2-1?
Sh2 refers to the second edition of the Sharpless catalog of emission nebulae. The number 1 identifies the specific nebula's position in that catalog.
Why do astronomers study emission nebulae such as Sharpless 2-1?
Emission nebulae reveal regions where ultraviolet radiation makes surrounding hydrogen glow. They can therefore provide clues about massive stars and active star-forming areas.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.