description Mairan's Nebula Overview
Mairan's Nebula, officially cataloged as Messier 43 or NGC 1982, is a star-forming H II region located in the constellation Orion. It was discovered by the French astronomer Jean-Jacques Dortous de Mairan before 1731 and later included in Charles Messier's catalog in 1769. The nebula is physically connected to the larger Orion Nebula (Messier 42) and is separated from it by a prominent lane of dust. It is an active stellar nursery, ionized by the bright variable star NU Orionis, and is a common target for astronomical observation.
help Mairan's Nebula FAQ
Is Mairan's Nebula part of the Orion Nebula?
Yes, Messier 43 is physically part of the same large star-forming complex as the Orion Nebula, Messier 42. A dark dust lane makes M43 appear visually separated from the brighter main nebula.
Where can Mairan's Nebula be found in the night sky?
It lies in Orion's Sword immediately north of the bright central portion of M42. From dark skies, a small telescope can show it as a comma-shaped patch around its illuminating star.
Which star illuminates Mairan's Nebula?
The nebula is chiefly illuminated by NU Orionis, also designated HD 37061. Its ultraviolet radiation ionizes the surrounding hydrogen and creates the visible H II region.
Why is Messier 43 named after Jean-Jacques d'Ortous de Mairan?
The French astronomer described the nebulous region near the Orion Nebula in 1731. Charles Messier later entered it separately as M43 in his catalog in 1769.
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