description Sh2-252 (Monkey Head) Overview
Sharpless 2-252, commonly called the Monkey Head Nebula, is an emission nebula and H II region located in the constellation Orion. It is an active star-forming region containing a massive embedded star cluster, and it is frequently imaged in the H-alpha wavelength to reveal its glowing hydrogen gas. The nebula's common name derives from the resemblance of its overall shape to a monkey's head in wide-field images.
help Sh2-252 (Monkey Head) FAQ
Why is the Monkey Head Nebula called that?
The Monkey Head Nebula, formally designated as Sharpless 2-252 or NGC 2174, earned its nickname because the glowing hydrogen gas forms a shape that resembles a monkey's face in long-exposure astrophotography. It is located in the constellation Orion.
What kind of nebula is Sh2-252?
Sh2-252 is classified as an emission nebula and an H II region, meaning it contains a massive cloud of ionized gas. It is an active star-forming region that contains a massive embedded star cluster.
How do astronomers photograph the Monkey Head Nebula?
Astrophotographers frequently image the Monkey Head Nebula using a specialized H-alpha filter to reveal its glowing gases and structural details. This specific wavelength highlights the presence of excited hydrogen atoms within the nebula.
Where is the Monkey Head Nebula located?
The Monkey Head Nebula is situated roughly 6,400 light-years away from Earth in the northern constellation of Orion. It is a popular target for both amateur astronomers and professional observatories like Hubble.
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