Sh2-86 is a large emission nebula located in the constellation Vulpecula, surrounding and illuminated by the open star cluster NGC 6823 and the smaller reflection nebula NGC 6820. This nebula is notable for its intricate structures, including pillars and Bok globules, and provides a rich example of an active star-forming region approximately 6,000 light years from Earth.
Key Characteristics
- • Sh2-86 has an apparent size of about 40 arcminutes and is relatively faint but complex, showing distinct emission features shaped by the energetic radiation from its central cluster.
- • The open cluster NGC 6823 at the center consists of young, hot stars whose intense radiation sculpts the surrounding nebula, creating pillars and other dynamic features.
- • NGC 6820, found at the fringe of Sh2-86, is a small reflection nebula that adds further interest to the region.
Astronomical and Imaging Notes
- • Sh2-86 is catalogued as LBN 135 and is ionized predominantly by the Vulpecula OB1 stellar association.
- • Astrophotographers often target this area for its interplay of emission and reflection, using narrowband filters (such as Hα) to highlight the nebula’s hydrogen emission, which is prominent at 656.28 nm.
- • The region contains a larger background of hydrogen-alpha emission and areas of dark nebulae, making it visually rich when imaged with modern equipment.
Position and Observation
- • Sh2-86’s center is roughly at RA 19h 43m, Dec +23° 18’, in Vulpecula.
- • It is best observed during summer months from northern latitudes, and its clustered stars and glowing hydrogen emission make it a popular target for deep-sky photography.
Sh2-86 offers astronomers a unique view into the processes of star formation, providing a striking example of how young stars interact with their parent molecular clouds.
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