The "IC 5070 Pelican Nebula" photograph reveals a stunning star-forming region, approximately 30 light-years wide and located 1,800 light-years from Earth. Captured from my Bortle 8 backyard in Phoenix, this image showcases the dynamic interplay of hydrogen gas emitting light, a hallmark of emission nebulae. Over five nights, I meticulously gathered 175 subframes in Hydrogen-alpha, Oxygen III, and Sulfur II, allowing the vibrant colors and intricate details to emerge.
This nebula, often likened to a pelican due to its shape, is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the cosmos. The ionization front, driven by the light from young, energetic stars, is gradually transforming the gas clouds, ensuring that this celestial formation will look different in millions of years. The thin dark dust cloud known as L935 separates it from the nearby North America Nebula, adding depth to the scene.
Imagine this photograph gracing your decor, inviting contemplation and sparking curiosity about the universe. Its rich colors and textures can serve as a focal point, drawing you into the mysteries of space.
Explore the beauty of the Pelican Nebula and consider how it might enhance your space. This piece is available in my online gallery, ready to bring a touch of the cosmos into your home.
NOTE:
The majority of photographs of nebulae are in a false color palette. False-color photographs of nebulae are essentially color (RGB) photographs whose color channels have been mapped to specific emission lines. In these images, each color can represent a specific element. In other words, a false-color image of a nebula tells us exactly what it’s made of. There are many emission lines, but the three most photographed by astronomers are hydrogen-alpha, oxygen-III, and sulfur-II. These emission lines are captured by using narrowband filters which only let through the light at very specific wavelengths, typically most of my photographs are taken with filters allowing a bandwidth of 3µm.
|
Element |
Emission line |
Wavelength |
Color |
|
Hydrogen |
Hα |
656.3 nm |
Red |
|
Oxygen |
O-III |
500.7 nm |
Blue/Green |
|
Sulfur |
S-II |
672.4 nm |
Red |
Mapping Hα, O-III and S-II to red, green and blue is problematic when two of them are red, one is blue/green, and none is pure blue. Astronomers deal with this by using false color — one or more of these elements is going to have to take a hit for the team and take on an unnatural hue. The Hubble palette assigns red to S-II, green to Hα, and blue to O-III: red is accurate, green and blue are false. This photograph uses the Hubble color palette, hence the golds and blues you find in the photograph.
Imagine this stunning photograph gracing your space, inviting contemplation and sparking conversations. The ethereal beauty of the Pelican Nebula, with its rich colors and intricate details, can transform any room into a serene retreat. It’s not just a piece of art; it’s a window into the cosmos, a reminder of the vastness beyond our everyday lives.
Deep Space Black 🖤
Hex: #1C1C1C
A grounding color that evokes depth and mystery, perfect for creating a dramatic backdrop.
Nebula Blue 🌌
Hex: #4A90E2
This calming blue brings a sense of tranquility and openness, reminiscent of the vast sky.
Starlight White ✨
Hex: #FFFFFF
A crisp, clean white that adds brightness and contrast, enhancing the artwork's details.
Cosmic Orange 🟠
Hex: #FF6F20
This vibrant hue adds warmth and energy, echoing the glowing gas clouds in the photograph.
Celestial Gray 🌫️
Hex: #B0BEC5
A soft gray that provides balance and sophistication, allowing the other colors to shine.
Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt 🌊
Color Name: Sea Salt
Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt
A soft, muted green that brings a refreshing touch, harmonizing beautifully with the artwork.
Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter 🪨
Color Name: Revere Pewter
Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
A warm gray that complements the photograph's tones, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Behr Soft Sage 🍃
Color Name: Soft Sage
Behr Soft Sage
This gentle green adds a natural element, enhancing the organic feel of the artwork.
Pair with Soft Sage Walls: Imagine this photograph against soft sage walls, complemented by charcoal gray furnishings. This combination creates a calming effect, allowing the artwork to be the focal point.
Off-White Backdrop: An off-white wall will make the vibrant colors of the nebula pop beautifully. Add warm wood accents in furniture and decor to create a harmonious balance.
Layered Textures: Incorporate textured fabrics like a plush throw or woven cushions in neutral tones to enhance the visual interest without overwhelming the photograph.
This photograph is not just a visual delight; it’s an invitation to explore the cosmos from the comfort of your home. By thoughtfully integrating these colors and styling suggestions, you can create a space that resonates with the beauty of the universe, making every glance at the artwork a moment of inspiration.
 |
About DaveI create photographs that bridge fine art, landscape, travel, and astrophotography—each image a study in the way light shapes our world. From the shifting glow of the Sonoran Desert to the rugged edges of distant coastlines and the delicate structures of deep space, I’m drawn to scenes where light, texture, and tone converge in unexpected ways. Nature is the true artist; I simply try to honor its vision with every frame. My goal is to reveal the quiet magic of iconic places, turning fleeting moments into lasting visual stories. Through my lens, I invite you to see the world with a sense of wonder, a touch of sophistication, and a spirit of playful exploration. There’s always a bit of adventure—and a dash of wanderlust—in every photograph I share. |
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This means you can use the camera on your phone or tablet and superimpose any piece of art onto a wall inside of your home or business.
To use this feature, Just look for the "Live Preview AR" button when viewing any piece of art on this website!
