LDN 1235 - Dark Shark Nebula

Captured over 6.5 hours, revealing cold, dense clouds of interstellar gas and dust.

Distance From Earth - 650 Light Years
Diameter - 15 Light Years
Total Exposure Time - 6.5 Hours

LDN 1235, Dark Shark Nebula, is a dark nebula located in the constellation Cepheus. It is composed of cold, dense clouds of interstellar gas and dust. Unlike glowing emission nebulae, LDN 1235 does not shine on it's own. Instead, it appears as a dark silhouette, blocking existing light from the stars behind it. Its shape is carved by stellar winds and radiation from neaby stars. Within its dense cores, gravity is slowing pulling material together, making it a good candidate for future star formation.

This image was taken during a solo camping trip at Cherry Springs State Park. Dark nebulae are very difficult to image in areas with light pollution, so pristine dark skies are essential.