M 42

M 42

HII

HII — SIMBAD verified

The Orion Nebula, cataloged as M42, is a stunning, diffuse emission nebula located in the sword of the Orion constellation. This massive star-forming region shines brilliantly, powered by the intense ultraviolet radiation of the young, hot stars known as the Trapezium cluster embedded at its heart.

Key Facts

RA (J2000)

5h 35m 16.8s

Dec (J2000)

−5° 23′ 15″

Best Season

Winter (Dec–Feb)

How to Find It

Locate Orion's belt, the three prominent stars in a row, and look directly below them for the fuzzy vertical line of stars known as the sword; the middle object in this line is the nebula.

Observing Tip

Use a low-magnification eyepiece to capture the full extent of the nebulosity and its delicate structure, as higher power will often dim the view.

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