About Hubble's Variable Nebula (C46)

Hubble's Variable Nebula is frequently observed by amateur astronomers and presents itself as a diffuse object. It has moderate brightness.

Current visibility

Right now it is at about 35° altitude and reaches 81° around 06:30 PM.

It stays above 30° for roughly 8 hours.

Nebulae benefit from filters, contrast improves away from light pollution.

Observing tips

It can be challenging under typical skies.

What to expect

It appears more compact than typical clusters.

Type

Reflection Nebula

Constellation

Monoceros

Distance

2500 ly

Size

Season

Winter

Difficulty

Very Hard

Magnitude

9