M 78 (NGC 2068)
M 78 (NGC 2068) is a reflection nebula in the constellation Orion, magnitude 8.3, 8.0′ × 6.0′ across.
One of the brightest reflection nebulae in the sky: a fan of light in Orion, dust reflecting the light of two 10th-magnitude stars. It shines by reflected starlight, so nebula filters do not help.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around January, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in December). It sits on the celestial equator, so it can be seen from almost everywhere on Earth.
At its highest it stands 40° up from 50°N, 55° up from 35°N, 90° up from the equator, 55° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Reflection nebula
- Constellation
- Orion
- Designations
- NGC 2068
- Magnitude
- 8.3
- Apparent size
- 8.0′ × 6.0′
- Position
- RA 5h 46.8m, Dec +0° 5′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when M 78 (NGC 2068) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.