Hubble's Variable Nebula
NGC 2261
Properties
Position & Identifiers
Visibility
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About Hubble's Variable Nebula
Description
Hubble's Variable Nebula (NGC 2261) is a small, fan-shaped reflection nebula in Monoceros, about 2,500 light-years away. It is illuminated by the young variable star R Monocerotis at its southern tip and shows remarkable changes in brightness and shape over weeks to months.
Observing Tips
Visible as a small, comet-shaped glow in a 4-inch telescope. The brighter southern tip and fan-shaped extension are distinctive. Compare sketches from different nights to detect variability. Best in winter evenings.
History
Discovered by William Herschel in 1783. Edwin Hubble studied it extensively between 1916 and 1920, documenting its changes. It was the first object photographed with the 200-inch Hale Telescope at Palomar in 1949.
Fun Facts
The nebula's variability is caused by shadows cast by dense dust clouds orbiting close to R Monocerotis, which block and redirect the star's light like a cosmic lighthouse.
Community Photos (1)
Credit: Judy Schmidt from Fresh Meadows, NY, USA. License: CC BY 2.0. (Wikimedia Commons)
Skybred Mar 2, 2026