description Sharpless 2-132 Overview
Sharpless 2-132, commonly called the Lion Nebula, is a large emission nebula in the constellation Cepheus. It lies in the Perseus Arm of the Milky Way and is catalogued as an H II region, where ultraviolet radiation from hot, massive stars ionizes surrounding hydrogen gas. Its complex structure includes glowing gas and dark dust, with Wolf-Rayet and O-type stars contributing to the nebula's excitation.
help Sharpless 2-132 FAQ
Where is Sharpless 2-132 and what kind of nebula is it?
Sharpless 2-132, often called the Lion Nebula, is a large H II emission nebula in the constellation Cepheus. It lies in the Perseus Arm of the Milky Way and is associated with the Cepheus OB1 region.
Why is Sharpless 2-132 called the Lion Nebula?
Long-exposure images can make its uneven emission clouds resemble a lion's head and body. The nickname refers to that visual shape, while Sharpless 2-132 is the formal catalog designation.
What stars ionize the Lion Nebula?
The nebula is energized by hot, massive stars, including the Wolf-Rayet star HD 211853, also known as WR 153. Other Wolf-Rayet and O-type stars contribute ultraviolet radiation that ionizes the surrounding hydrogen.
Can I see Sharpless 2-132 without a telescope?
It is a faint, extended target usually pursued with a telescope and long-exposure astrophotography rather than naked-eye viewing. Narrowband H-alpha, sulfur, and oxygen filters are commonly used to reveal its emission structure.
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