RCW6 - SH2-301

Sh2-301 (also known as Gum 5) is an emission nebula visible in the constellation Canis Major.

It is located in the central-northern part of the constellation, exactly 8° north of the star Wezen, one of the brightest in Canis Major, immersed in a star field that gradually becomes richer towards the east; it can be observed and photographed with high-powered amateur instruments, with the help of special filters. The most favorable period for its observation in the evening sky is between the months of December and April; its southern declination means that it is more easily observable from the southern regions.