Bring the Universe Home

Object: Sh 2-308

Step into the cosmic ocean with this stunning image capturing the Dolphin Head Nbeula (Sh 2-308). This eyecatching nebula is located roughly 5,200 light-years away from Earth in the Canis Major constellation. The sweeping arcs of ionized gas and delicate filamenta reveal the dynamic and strong forces oof stellar winds that shaped this region, while background galaxies and even planetary nebula PNG 234.9-09.7 can be spotted!

A Bubble of Comsic Energy

Sh 2-308 is a prime example of how a dying star can behave while shaping our universe. This nebula surrounds a massive central star that has expelled its outer layers, creating a shell of glowing gas in the shape of a dolphin head. Lix’s capture highlights the intricate structure and subtle colour variations, from the faint reds of hydrogen to the teals of ionzied oxygen, enhancing the nebulas dolphin-like features.

How it Was Captured

Images like this one are taken using long-exposures, stacking and filters to reveale intricate textures and faint outer structures. Multiple exposures were taken, stakced and processed in PixInsight and Photoshop to enhance the bright inner regions and expose faint areas.

Further Capture Information

Date Captured: 14/02/2026 - 21/02/2026

Location: Carapooee, VIC, Australia

Bortle: Class 2

Integration Time: 42 hours

Telescope: Askar 120

Mount: HEQ5-Pro

Camera: ZWO ASI2500MM-Pro

Filters: Antlia 3nm Narrowband HA and OIII, Antlia RGB V-series Pro