NGC 2261

NGC 2261 (also known as Hubble’s Variable Nebula or Caldwell 46) is a variable nebula located in the constellation Monoceros. The nebula is illuminated by the star R Monocerotis (R Mon), which is not directly visible itself.  The first recorded observation of the nebula was by William Herschel on 26 December 1783, being described as considerably bright and ‘fan-shaped’. It had long been designated as H IV 2, after being the second entry of Herschel’s class 4 category for nebulae and star clusters, in his catalogues of nebulae.

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Observations

Keywords: NGC 2261 , 110 Finest NGCs, Hubble’s Variable Nebula, Monoceros, NGC2261