Fire Shrimp nebula Sh2-204

Image Title: Fire Shrimp nebula Sh2-204

Copyright: Toni Fabiani

Date image was taken: October 15, 2025

Location: Ager, Lleida, Spain

Data Acquisition Method: Personal Telescope Setup

Description and Details: Sh2-204 is an emission nebula located in the constellation Camelopardalis (the Giraffe). Its peculiar shape, which resembles a shrimp, has earned it the nickname “The Shrimp Nebula.”

Location and Observation

It lies in the southern part of the constellation, in a region that is dark and lacking bright stars.

It is easier to observe from the Northern Hemisphere, where it can even be circumpolar at temperate latitudes.

The best time for evening observation is between September and February.

Physical Characteristics

It is a large H II region, meaning an area of ionized hydrogen gas.

Distance estimates vary:

Some place it at ~3,040 light-years, possibly within the Cygnus Arm.

More commonly accepted estimates put it at around ~12,400 light-years.

It is associated with the infrared source IRAS 03519+5718.

Relationship With Nearby Stars

It is likely linked to the Camelopardalis OB3 stellar association.

At least four O-type stars are thought to be responsible for ionizing the gas within Sh2-204.

Notable Structures

Western region: features bright Hydrogen-alpha nebulosity and several dark nebula regions.

Northern region: shows complex ionized structures where Oxygen III (OIII) and Hydrogen-alpha emissions blend together.

Includes dark gas clouds containing the nebulae LDN 1388 and LDN 1389, dense dust regions where new stars are forming.

The background is filled with diffuse H-alpha emission, giving it reddish tones.

Telescope: ESPRIT100
Camera QHY268M
Mount: EQ6R-P

Ha 67×600
OIII 136×600

Lum 29×300
R 94×60
G 87×60
B 110×60
41hr Exposure

Name: Toni Fabiani Méndez

Website or Facebook Profile: http://www.rinconesdelcielo.com