Ghost of Jupiter
NGC 3242
Properties
Position & Identifiers
Visibility
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About Ghost of Jupiter
Description
The Ghost of Jupiter (NGC 3242) is a bright planetary nebula in Hydra, about 1,400 light-years away. Its blue-green disk spans about 40 arcseconds and bears a passing resemblance to the planet Jupiter, hence its name.
Observing Tips
One of the finest planetary nebulae for small telescopes. A 3-inch scope shows a bright blue disk. An 8-inch scope at 200x reveals the inner ring structure and a fainter outer halo. An OIII filter enhances the outer regions. Best in spring evenings.
History
Discovered by William Herschel on February 7, 1785. It is also known as the Eye Nebula due to its concentric shell structure visible in deep images.
Fun Facts
The Ghost of Jupiter has multiple concentric shells, each representing a different mass-loss episode from the dying central star. The outermost halo extends to about 2 arcminutes but is extremely faint.
Community Photos (1)
Credit: Judy Schmidt. License: CC BY 2.0. (Wikimedia Commons)
Skybred Mar 2, 2026