NGC 2261, Hubble's Variable Nebula

This image of Hubble's Variable Nebula in the constellation of Monoceros was taken with the Kitt Peak National Observatory's 0.9-meter telescope in March 1995. In this relatively shallow version of the image, the details of the nebula's structure can be seen. It is these details which change, altering its appearance and giving rise to its name. A deeper realization shows fainter features and some of the interesting surroundings.