description Toby Jug Nebula Overview
The Toby Jug Nebula, cataloged as IC 2220, is a distinctive bipolar reflection nebula located in the southern constellation of Carina. The structure is uniquely illuminated by the red giant star HR 3126, whose stellar winds have blown an asymmetric cloud of gas and dust into a shape resembling a drinking jug. Discovered photographically by astronomer DeLisle Stewart in 1900, the nebula's visual symmetry provides an example of late-stage stellar mass loss.
help Toby Jug Nebula FAQ
Why is IC 2220 called the Toby Jug Nebula?
Its curved bipolar shape resembles an old English drinking vessel known as a Toby jug. Dust around the red giant HR 3126 reflects the star's light and creates the nebula's distinctive outline.
What type of nebula is the Toby Jug Nebula?
IC 2220 is a bipolar reflection nebula rather than a glowing hydrogen emission nebula. Its visible light is largely starlight scattered by dust expelled from HR 3126.
Is the Toby Jug Nebula a planetary nebula?
It resembles a planetary nebula in shape, but it surrounds a red giant that is still losing material. Astronomers study it as a rare example of circumstellar dust formed during a late stage of stellar evolution.
Where in the sky is the Toby Jug Nebula?
IC 2220 lies in the southern constellation Carina. It was discovered photographically by DeLisle Stewart in 1900, making it primarily a target for southern observers and imaging telescopes.
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