IC434 - Horsehead Nebula

8. IC434 - Horsehead Nebula This faint and difficult nebula stretches south of Zeta Orionis for almost a degree. At its midpoint lies the famous Horsehead nebula, a patch of dark obscuring matter seen in silhouette. Remember, the Horsehead is small, only 4' or so across; many amateurs fail to find it because they are looking for something too big. Amateur astronomers have seen it with a 6-inch refractor, and a 10-inch will usually suffice. However, a 12- or 16-inch telescope is needed for a superior view. Use medium power.