Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2024 June 10
A starfield is shown with a large colorful emission nebula in the center. The outline of this emission nebula has a resemblance to a lion. Please see the explanation for more detailed information.

Sh2-132: The Lion Nebula
Image Credit & Copyright: Imran Badr; Text: Natalia Lewandowska (SUNY Oswego)

Explanation: Is the Lion Nebula the real ruler of the constellation Cepheus? This powerful-feline appearing nebula is powered by two massive stars, each with masses over 20 times greater than our Sun. Formed from shells ionized gas that have expanded, its energetic matter not only glows, but is dense enough to contract and gravitationally form stars. Officially named Sh2-132, the angular size of the Lion Nebula is slightly greater than that of the full moon. The gaseous iconic region resides about 10,000 light years away in a constellation named after the King of Aethopia in Greek mythology.

Your Sky Surprise: What picture did APOD feature on your birthday? (post 1995)
Tomorrow's picture: star clouds

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