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NGC 7000, The North American Nebula

NGC 7000 is a large, bright emission nebula located in the northern constellation of Cygnus, also known as the North America Nebula due to its shape resembling the North American continent. The nebula is approximately 2,000 light-years away from Earth and spans an area of about 100 light-years across. It is composed mainly of hydrogen gas, which is ionized by the ultraviolet radiation from nearby young, hot stars, causing it to glow brightly. The intricate, complex shapes within the nebula are the result of the interactions between the gas and dust particles, as well as the intense radiation and stellar winds from the young stars. NGC 7000 is a stunning example of the beauty and complexity of the cosmos, and is a favorite among astronomers and stargazers alike.

The North America Nebula (NGC 7000 or Caldwell 20) is an emission nebula in the constellation Cygnus, close to Deneb (the tail of the swan and its brightest star). The shape of the nebula resembles that of the continent of North America, complete with a prominent Gulf of Mexico. 

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I had previously attempted to image this back in 2020, but with a borrowed telescope as I awaited the delivery of a Skywatcher Esprit 100. The major differences (other than processing skills!) are the smaller field of view with a Newtonian telescope and the use of narrowband filters).

Due to the sheer size of the entire nebulous region, this target works well with a wide field system

Total Imaging Time: 7 hours of exposure

Camera: QHY 163M

Filter: Antlia 3.5nm Narrowband filters Ha, Sii, Oiii 

Lens/Scope: TS Optics UNC 6 inch F5 Carbon Fibre Newtonian

Mount: iOptron CEM 40

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