description Wizard Nebula Overview
The Wizard Nebula, formally designated SH2-142, is an emission nebula notable for its intricate structure resembling a wizard's hat. Located within the Cepheus star cluster NGC 7380, it’s characterized by high hydrogen ionization lines (HII). Astronomers and amateur observers interested in stellar nurseries and young star clusters find this object particularly compelling due to its visual complexity and active emission features.
help Wizard Nebula FAQ
Where in the sky is the Wizard Nebula located?
The Wizard Nebula sits in the constellation Cepheus in the far northern sky, surrounding the young open star cluster NGC 7380. It lies roughly 7,000 to 8,000 light-years from Earth.
Who discovered the Wizard Nebula and its associated cluster NGC 7380?
Caroline Herschel discovered NGC 7380 in 1787 from England, and her brother William Herschel cataloged it shortly afterward. The surrounding emission cloud was later listed as Sharpless Sh2-142 in Stewart Sharpless's 1959 catalogue of HII regions.
What catalog numbers does the Wizard Nebula go by?
The nebula itself is designated Sh2-142 in the Sharpless catalogue, while the embedded star cluster is NGC 7380. Some references also use the designation LBN 519 for the surrounding HII region in the Lynds Bright Nebula catalogue.
Can you see the Wizard Nebula through a backyard telescope?
The cluster NGC 7380 is visible in a small 4-inch telescope, but the Wizard Nebula's nebulosity is extremely faint. To actually see the 'wizard' silhouette visually, you typically need an 8-inch or larger scope with a narrowband or H-beta filter and very dark skies.
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