Sh 2-54

Sh 2-54 is an extended bright nebula in the constellation of Serpens.^[1]

Sh 2-54

Emission nebula
H II region
Sh 2-54 nebula surrounding the star cluster NGC 6604
Observation data: J2000 epoch
Right ascension	18h 17m 53s[1]
Declination	−11° 40′ 58″[1]
Distance	6,200[2] ly
Apparent dimensions (V)	140 arcmins[3]
Constellation	Serpens
Physical characteristics
Radius	126.25 ly
Designations	RCW 167, Gum 84/85, W35, LBN 72[1]
See also: Lists of nebulae

In its core there are many protostars and many infrared sources; some of these sources, like IRAS 18151−1208, are most probably very young high-mass stars.^[4] The older star population in this region has an average age of 4–5 million years, and its components are grouped in the open cluster NGC 6604.^[2]

Sh 2-54 belongs to an extended nebulosity that includes also the Eagle Nebula and the Omega Nebula.^[5] The young high-mass stars of this region constitute the Serpens OB1 and Serpens OB2 OB association.^[2]

Gallery

• 
  Serpent's Nebula^[6]

See also

• H II region