Sh2-176 is a bright emission nebula located in the constellation of Cassiopeia. It is part of a larger region of star formation and is known for its striking appearance, which is primarily due to the ionization of gas by nearby hot stars. The nebula is approximately 1,000 light-years away from Earth. This nebula is also associated with the open cluster NGC 281, which contains young, hot stars that contribute to the illumination of the surrounding gas and dust. Sh2-176 is often studied by astronomers to understand the processes of star formation and the dynamics of interstellar matter.