Object Analysis

The Witch Head Nebula (IC 2118) is an extremely faint reflection nebula believed to be an ancient supernova remnant or gas cloud illuminated by nearby supergiant star Rigel in Orion. It lies in the Eridanus constellation, about 900 light-years from Earth.

The nature of the dust particles, reflecting blue light better than red, is a factor in giving the Witch Head its blue color. Radio observations show substantial carbon monoxide emission throughout parts of IC 2118, an indicator of the presence of molecular clouds and star formation in the nebula.

Its shape is undeniably spooky, resembling a classic profile of a wicked witch with a hooked nose and pointed chin looking toward the bright star Rigel. The nebula is quite large, spanning about 5 degrees in the sky, but its low surface brightness makes it a challenging target for visual observation.