The Horsehead Nebula

The Horsehead Nebula is a famous cloud in space. It looks just like the head of a horse. The dark shape stands out against glowing red gas behind it. It is found in the constellation Orion, which is easy to see in the night sky.

A Cloud of Dust

The Horsehead is made of thick, cold dust and gas. The dust blocks light from stars behind it. That is why it looks dark. The red glow around it comes from hydrogen gas lit up by nearby stars. The nebula is about 1,500 light-years from Earth.

A Place for New Stars

Inside the Horsehead Nebula, new stars are forming. The gas and dust clump together over millions of years. Then they become hot enough to start shining. The nebula is slowly changing shape. In a few million years, the horse head will no longer look like a horse.

Fun Facts

• The Horsehead Nebula was first seen in photos in 1888.
• It is about three light-years wide.
• It is near the bright star Alnitak in Orion's Belt.

Did You Know?

The Horsehead Nebula is too faint to see with your eyes alone, even with a small telescope.