Cat’s Paw and Lobster Nebulae

The Cat’s Paw Nebula (NGC 6334) and the Lobster Nebula (NGC 6357) are two prominent emission nebulae located in the constellation Scorpius, near the tip of the Scorpion's tail. Although they appear adjacent in the sky, they are at different distances: the Cat’s Paw is approximately 5,500 light-years away, while the more remote Lobster Nebula is about 8,000 light-years from Earth.

These regions are active stellar nurseries where hot, young stars emit intense ultraviolet light that ionizes surrounding hydrogen gas, causing the nebulae to glow bright red. The distinctive shapes, resembling feline toe pads and a lobster claw, are formed by this energised gas and dust.

Lobster Nebula

Cat’s Paw Nebula