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Object name
Sh2-232

Constellation: Auriga
Distance:5 900 light years
Imaged by Jean-Yves Beninger from Alqueva Dark Sky, Portugal
On 28 and 29 February 2025

Equipment:
Astro-Physics Mach1
Astro-Physics AP130 Starfire EDF with 2.7" field flattener 67PF562, 819mm
Camera Zwo ASI 2600MM pixel size 3.76µ
Filters R, G, B, S, H, O

Mosaic of 2 panels of HRGB images.

Description:

Sh2-232 is a large H II region located in the constellation Auriga, approximately 5,500 light-years from Earth. It is part of a star-forming complex, along with Sh2-231 and Sh2-233.

The nebula, spanning about 160 light-years, is ionized by massive OB-type stars. Though faint in visible light, it is prominent in H-alpha, infrared, and radio wavelengths, revealing active star formation and molecular clouds.

Description:

PN G173.5+03.2 is a planetary nebula located within the constellation Auriga. It appears as a small, oval-shaped structure situated just left of the center of the emission nebula Sharpless 2-232 (Sh2-232). This nebula is part of a larger complex of faint hydrogen-alpha (Hα) emission regions, which also includes Sh2-235, Sh2-231, and Sh2-233.

The estimated distance to Sh2-235 is approximately 5,870 light-years. While a specific distance measurement for Sh2-232 is not readily available, it is likely similar to that of Sh2-235, given their association within the same hydrogen cloud. By extension, PN G173.5+03.2 is presumed to be at a comparable distance.​

PN G173.5+03.2 is discernible as a distinct feature amidst the surrounding nebulosity. In this image the nebula is visible as a small, oval structure in the middle.