SH2-112 and SH2-115 Nebulae in Cygnus

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SH2-112 and SH2-115 are neighboring emission nebulae embedded in the rich star fields of the northern Milky Way, forming part of a larger complex of ionized gas and dark dust. These regions are classic H II nebulae, where energetic ultraviolet radiation from young, massive stars excites surrounding hydrogen, causing it to glow in deep reds and subtle magenta hues.

SH2-112 appears as a soft, diffuse cloud with gentle arcs and filaments of glowing gas, partially veiled by dark interstellar dust. Its structure hints at ongoing star formation, with faint, uneven illumination revealing the turbulent interactions between stellar winds and the surrounding medium.

SH2-115, in contrast, is brighter and more defined, often showing sharper boundaries and brighter knots where stellar radiation is most intense. Embedded stars carve cavities and edges in the nebula, giving it a textured, layered appearance that stands out against the background of the Milky Way.

Together, SH2-112 and SH2-115 create a subtle but captivating portrait of stellar birth and evolution—an intricate balance of light and shadow that showcases the dynamic processes shaping our galaxy.

Technical Details

Telescope: Sky-Watcher Esprit 100ED Refractor

Auto Focus: ZWO Electronic Auto Focuser

Astronomy Camera: ZWO ASI071MC Pro

Filter: Optolong UV-IR cut filter; 120 exposures @ 60 seconds each (2 hours)

Filter: Antlia ALP-T Dual Narrowband Ha/Oiii Filter; 294 exposures @ 5 minutes each (24.5 hours)

Total Integration Time: 26.5 hours

Auto Guiding: William Optics Uniguide 50mm Guide Scope

Auto Guiding Camera: ZWO ASI120MM Mini Guide Camera

Auto Guiding Software: PHD2

Telescope Mount: Sky- Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Telescope Computer: BeeLink GK-55 Mini PC / Windows 10 Pro