Sh2 132: The Lion Nebula

Is the Lion Nebula the real ruler of the constellation Cepheus ? This powerful feline appearing nebula is powered by two massive stars , each with a mass over 20 times greater than our Sun . Formed from shells of ionized gas that have expanded, the nebula's energetic matter not only glows , but is dense enough to contract gravitationally and form stars . The angular size of the Lion Nebula, officially named Sh 2-132, is slightly greater than that of the full moon . The gaseous iconic region resides about 10,000 light year s away in a constellation named after the King of Aethopia in Greek mythology . Your Sky Surprise: What picture did APOD feature on your birthday? (post 1995)