The Valentine Rose Nebula—Sh2-174 in Cepheus: Wide-field view

The Valentine Rose Nebula—Sh2-174 in Cepheus: Wide-field view

Sh2-174 is an unusual ancient planetary nebula. A planetary nebula is created when a low-mass star blows off its outer layers at the end of its life. The core of the star remains and is called a white dwarf. Usually the white dwarf can be found very near the center of the planetary nebula. However, in the case of Sh2-174 it is off to the right. This asymmetry is due to the planetary nebula's interaction with the interstellar medium that surrounds it. 

Distance from Earth:  ~1,000 light-years

Credit: Alessandro Cipolat Bares

Image Details: Askar500 and ZWO ASI2600MC, ANTLIA ALP-T 3nm, 48x600"

Capture Location: Aosta Valley, Western Alps, Italy
Image Date: Feb. 27, 2026
Release Date: March 9, 2026

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