AAPOD2 Image Archives
Gecko on the red curtain (LBN 437)
The "Gecko Nebula" is an informal and creative name given to a specific region within the larger LBN (Lynds Bright Nebula) catalog. Specifically, it is often associated with LBN 437, a molecular cloud complex located in the constellation Cepheus.
The name "Gecko Nebula" likely arises from the visual resemblance of dark lanes and structures within the nebula to the patterns on a gecko's skin or the shape of a gecko. Such creative names are often used by amateur astronomers and astrophotographers to make celestial objects more memorable or to highlight interesting features within them.
While the term "Gecko Nebula" is not an official astronomical designation, it reflects the enthusiasm and creativity within the astronomy community. If you're interested in observing or learning more about the Gecko Nebula (LBN 437), it's worth checking astrophotography forums, astronomy websites, or sky observation guides for images and additional information shared by enthusiasts.
LBN 437 (SH2-126)
Image Description and Details : Data reprocessed under cloudy skies in March '22
LBN 437 is a molecular cloud in the constellation Lacerta. It is located at the edge of the much larger emission nebula Sh2-126 and the star forming region Lacerta OB1. The densest part of LBN 437 (centre) is associated with some bright young stars, among which the variable star V375 Lacertae, which is an Herbig object, with strong Hα-emission. This star is also responsible for the excitation of some bipolar Herbig-Haro-Objects situated in the nebula (HH 808, HH 809, HH 398).
Imaging telescope: Takahashi FSQ130ED
Imaging cameras: FLI ML16200
Mounts: Takahashi EM 400 Temma 2M
Guiding cameras: QHY CCD QHY 5 II
Focal Extender / Reducer: Tak QE 0.73x
Software: PHD 2, Astro Pixel Processer, PixInsight , Sequence Generator Pro SGP
Filters: Astrodon Ha + Astrodon RGB
Accessories: ATIK EFW3
Dates: Oct 4 - Oct 9, 2021
Frames:
Astrodon Ha: 18 x 600"
Astrodon R: 26 x 180"
Astrodon G: 26 x 180"
Astrodon B: 28 x 180"
Astrodon L: 57 x 180"
Integration: 8 Hours 51 Mins.
Copyright: Brendan Kinch