description Sharpless 2-190 Overview
Sharpless 2-190 is the emission nebula commonly called the Heart Nebula, located in the constellation Cassiopeia within the Milky Way. It is a large H II region in which ultraviolet radiation from young, massive stars ionizes surrounding hydrogen gas, producing the nebula's reddish glow in astronomical images. The open cluster Melotte 15 lies near its center and helps shape the illuminated clouds, making the region a target for professional study and astrophotography.
help Sharpless 2-190 FAQ
What constellation is the Sharpless 2-190 nebula located in?
Sharpless 2-190 is located in the constellation Cassiopeia, which is easily recognizable by its W-shape in the northern night sky. This placement makes it a highly popular target for amateur astrophotographers during autumn and winter.
Is Sharpless 2-190 the same object as the Heart Nebula?
Yes, Sharpless 2-190 is the catalog designation for the famous Heart Nebula, named for its distinct, valentine-like shape. It is a massive emission nebula glowing with red ionized hydrogen gas.
What causes the red glow in the Heart Nebula?
The reddish color comes from ultraviolet radiation emitted by young, massive stars in the region, which ionizes the surrounding hydrogen gas. This process makes it a classic H II region found within the Milky Way.
Do I need a telescope to photograph Sharpless 2-190?
Because it is quite faint, observing or photographing the Heart Nebula typically requires a telescope with a sensitive astrophotography camera and specialized narrowband filters. It is generally not visible to the naked eye or standard binoculars.
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