Orion and M42

The constellation of Orion, called Ka Heihei o na keiki in Hawaiian, is arguably one of the most recognizable constellation, world-wide, because it can be seen from both the northern and southern hemisphere.

Within the constellation of Orion we find M42, the Orion Nebula which is arguably one of the most beautiful objects visible in the night sky.  M42 is often mistaken for one of the stars in Orion’s sword when viewed by the naked eye. However when viewed through a telescope, or even a good pair of binoculars,  M42 is a seen as giant gaseous nebula about 1600 light years away and 30 light years across. Thought to be the birthplace of many of the stars that make up the constellation of Orion, among many others, the Orion Nebula is a true spectacle of the night skies!