The Sharpless catalog lists 313 emission nebulae that are found in our galaxy, The Milky Way. Among these celestial wonders, SH2-11 and SH2-8 stand out for their cosmic characteristics and mesmerizing beauty.
SH2-11:
It is a nebula located in the direction of the Scorpio constellation, about 5770 light years from us. This vast nebula emits light due to the ionization of its gases by stellar winds and the radiation of massive stars within it.
Also called the Lobster Nebula or the War and Peace Nebula, this nebula has a diameter of approximately 400 light years. It is made up of several sub-regions, each with particular characteristics. This is how it shelters young and massive stellar clusters, dense molecular clouds, and complex filamentous structures.
Many proto-stars are also present in SH2-11. These are forming stars that are still enveloped in cocoons of gas and dust.
SH2-8:
Also cataloged as NGC 6334 and called the Cat’s Paw Nebula due to the distinctive shape reminiscent of a cat’s paw print, this magnificent emission nebula lies approximately 3,340 light years from Earth and spans a space about 50 light years across.
SH2-8 is also a very active star forming region, with massive stars forming. the latest scientific observations identify no less than 130 proto-stars.
Technical details :
Apo askar Fra 400 at F/D 5.6
iOptron cem 60 ec mount
PlayerOne Poseidon M Camera
Sampling : 1.93”
Hα 93 x 180s : 04 h 39 min
Oiii 163 x 300s : 11 h 20 min
Sii 99 x 300s : 08 h 15 min
RGB 120 x 60s : 02 h
Total integration : 26 h 14 min.
DOF : 27/101/27
Date of acquisition : June/July 2024
Location : Hawk 1-5, Oukaimeden, Morocco.