The California Nebula (Sh2-220, NGC 1499) is located about 1,000 light years (ly) from Earth in the constellation Perseus. It is an emission nebula with a strong Ha (HII) emission as well as some SII (sulfur) and OII (oxygen) emission. It’s nickname comes from the fact that it resembles the U.S. State of California.
The bright star at the top of the image is Menkib, formally Xi Persei, which interacts with Sh2-220 and excites the hydrogen gas emission.
Capture Dates: 10/21, 10/22, and 10/24/2024
William Optics RedCat 61 WIFD (f/4.9)
ASI2600MC Pro OSC camera with a 5-position ZWO filter wheel
ZWO 30F4 guide scope with an ASI120MM mini guide cam
ASIAir, AM5 mount
Filters:
Antlia Dual Narrowband 5nm Ha/OIII: 89x300s [7:25]
Antlia Dual Narrowband 5nm SII/Hb: 59x300s [4:55]
ZWO UV/IR Cut Filter (for RGB Stars) 20x60s [0:20]
Total integration time: 12:40
Processed in PixInsight and Adobe Photoshop
Greg you put out images faster than I can review them. This nebula always reminds me of a cupped hand with the cup facing upwards. Great details and contrast and color choices.
Terri
@terri Thanks again, Terri. This was my first capture of the CA Nebula and I thought the same thing about the cupped hands! 😊
Greg
