The Seagull Nebula, also known as IC 2177, is a stunning emission nebula complex that spans the constellations Monoceros and Canis Major, roughly 3,800 light-years from Earth. Shaped like a soaring seagull with outstretched wings, the nebula appears as a vivid blend of reds and pinks in the visible spectrum caused by hydrogen gas excited by intense ultraviolet radiation from nearby young, hot stars. The “head” of the seagull is marked by NGC 2327, a bright, compact region that contains dense molecular clouds and newly formed stars, giving it a luminous and intricate appearance. Spanning about 100 light-years across, the Seagull Nebula is a massive star-forming region where clusters of young stars are carving the surrounding gas with powerful stellar winds, shaping the complex’s delicate wings and wispy edges. Its captivating glow and intricate structure make it a celestial beauty. Additional H-alpha and Sulfur-II narrowband data from our RASA11 has been added to the full colour luminosity data from the TS94. Some faint blue reflection components can also be seen. The luminosity data was collected on location at the Hakos Guest Farm in Namibia, the Ha and SII data was collected in France.
TS94 EDPH (with reducer)
Celestron RASA11
10Micron GM1000 HPS (x2)
SIGMA fp L (colour) and SIGMA fp (mono)
ca. 6 hrs, ISO 400 / 1600, F2.2 / F4.4, 620mm / 414mm