NGC 1788 -- Reflection Nebula in Orion
The Cosmic Bat
Just two-degrees north of the star Cursa (Beta Eridani) is the small faint nebula NGC 1788.
This small nebula is a Reflection Nebula, so nebula filters designed for Emission Nebula are
not helpful. To me the nebula was harder to see at high magnifications. In low to moderate
powers the nebula appeared to shrink if I looked at it directly and expand if I diverted my vision.
It also appeared slightly patchy, but I could never make out the fleeting differences well enough
to include it in the drawing. Photographs of this nebula shows that the nebula is very uneven
with dark groves and extended wings. Some feel that it takes on the appearance of a bat.
This small nebula is a Reflection Nebula, so nebula filters designed for Emission Nebula are
not helpful. To me the nebula was harder to see at high magnifications. In low to moderate
powers the nebula appeared to shrink if I looked at it directly and expand if I diverted my vision.
It also appeared slightly patchy, but I could never make out the fleeting differences well enough
to include it in the drawing. Photographs of this nebula shows that the nebula is very uneven
with dark groves and extended wings. Some feel that it takes on the appearance of a bat.