Hubble’s Variable Nebula NGC 2261 – Reflection nebula in the constellation Monoceros
The small reflection nebula NGC 2261 is illuminated by the young variable giant star R Mon, which is not directly visible but is hidden in the brightest part of the nebula. The nebula itself shows changes in its structure over periods of months and years. Most probably the shadows of dust clouds moving around R Mon cause variations in the brightness of the nebula.
| Date: | 14.04.2023 |
| Optics: | Planewave CDK 12.5 with Televue 0.8x reducer |
| Aperture: | 318 mm |
| Focal Length: | 2030 mm |
| Camera: | Alccd12 |
| Exposure: | 18 x 300 s |
| Location: | Chamaeleon Observatory, Onjala Lodge, Namibia |
| Processing: | PixInsight, Photoshop |
| Diameter: | 1 light year |
| Distance: | 2,600 light years |
