Stargazers with access to clear skies tonight, Saturday, February 21, 2026, have the opportunity to observe the planetary nebula NGC 3242, often called the Ghost of Jupiter, in the constellation Hydra. The nebula becomes visible after moonset, appearing as a softly glowing, circular form roughly the same size as the planet Jupiter when viewed through a telescope.
NGC 3242 is a planetary nebula, formed when a dying star sheds its outer layers of gas and dust. The resulting structure is illuminated by the remaining core of the star, creating a visually striking object for amateur and professional astronomers alike. Its nickname derives from early observations noting its resemblance in apparent size to Jupiter through a telescope.
Astronomers are increasingly utilizing specialized filters to enhance the visibility of nebulae like NGC 3242. Duo Band filters, for example, are designed to isolate the wavelengths of light emitted by hydrogen alpha (Hα) and doubly-ionized oxygen (OIII), common in emission and planetary nebulae. These filters block much of the light pollution that can obscure faint deep-sky objects, particularly for observers in urban or suburban areas.
Recent advancements in camera technology, such as the Olympus OM-3 ASTRO camera from OM System and dedicated color astronomy cameras from ZWO, are also improving the ability to capture images of these nebulae. Unlike traditional DSLR or mirrorless cameras, these systems are designed to allow the specific wavelengths of light from nebulae to pass through, rather than blocking them. This allows for more detailed and vibrant images of these celestial objects.
While these filters and cameras enhance the details of nebulae, they also reduce the visibility of stars in the images, as much of their light is blocked. The use of these tools represents a trade-off between capturing the faint glow of nebulae and preserving the full starry background.
The Sky This Week reports that NGC 3242 glows at magnitude 7, making it accessible to many amateur telescopes. The nebula is located in Hydra, a large, faint constellation in the southern sky.
