Sequential star formation in the Sh 254-258 molecular cloud: HHT maps of CO J=3-2 and 2-1 emission

The molecular cloud associated with the Sh 254-258 group of 5 small H II regions appears to be forming a (late)-OB association. We have mapped the associated molecular cloud in the J=2-1 line of the CO molecule over 0.75 o × 1 o , and the CO J=3-2 line toward the 2 main peaks, with the University of Arizona Heinrich Hertz Submm Telescope (HHT). We propose a scenario for sequential formation of the stars exciting the H II regions, triggered by the compression/heating of the molecular gas.