If you want something truly spooky this Halloween, skip the costumes for a few minutes and look at the sky. According to the International Astronomy Center, a nebula known as the Witch Head rises in the eastern sky tonight, right alongside the Orion constellation. It comes up before midnight, and skywatchers in the UAE can enjoy it.
What Is the Witch Head Nebula?
Astronomers call it IC 2118. It sits close to Rigel, the brightest star in Orion. In photographs, the cloud looks like the side profile of a witch, with a pointed nose and chin. She seems to be gazing at the bright blue star next to her, which makes the sight even more fun.
The nebula is huge. The centre says it stretches across about 70 light-years, and it lies roughly 900 light-years from Earth.
| Detail | Fact |
|---|---|
| Name | Witch Head nebula, also called IC 2118 |
| Nearby star | Rigel, in Orion |
| Size | About 70 light years across |
| Distance from Earth | Around 900 light years |
| Type | Reflection nebula |
Why Does It Glow Blue?
The Witch Head does not make its own light. It is a reflection nebula, which means it shines by bouncing the light of Rigel. Space dust inside the cloud scatters blue light more than red light, and that gives the nebula its soft blue colour.
Some scientists also believe the nebula may be what remains of an ancient supernova, which is the explosion of a massive star. So the shape that looks playful on Halloween may have a dramatic past.
How to Find It From the UAE
The good news is that the Witch Head rises over the UAE together with Orion. At this time of year, the constellation appears in the eastern sky late in the evening. It climbs highest after midnight, and the hours before dawn give the best view.
To find the nebula, first look for Rigel. It is the bright blue-white star at the lower right of Orion. The Witch Head lies just to its west.
A few simple tips can help.
Go to a desert area away from city lights if you can. Dark skies make a huge difference. Pick a clear night and give your eyes about 15 to 20 minutes to adjust to the dark. Keep your phone screen dim, because bright light ruins your night vision.
Can You See It Without a Camera?
Not really. The details are too faint for the naked eye or binoculars. This nebula is a favourite target for astrophotographers because it comes to life in long exposure photographs. These are usually taken with a camera attached to a telescope, or with a long lens on a tripod or tracking mount.
So if you own camera gear, tonight is a fine time to try. If you do not, you can still step outside and enjoy Orion. On clear autumn nights, its bright stars are easy to spot, and it is a rewarding sight as the cooler season begins. Just knowing the witch is sitting there, next to Rigel, adds a little magic to the view.
Check the Weather First
Clear skies matter for any stargazing night. Many people have been asking about the winter forecast lately, and the details are worth a read in this piece on whether the UAE will see heavy rain this winter and what the 96% El Niño forecast really means. It helps to know what the weather may do before you plan a trip to the desert.
A Fitting Sight for Halloween
The International Astronomy Center described the Witch Head as one of the most imagination stirring objects in the night sky. That is a nice way to put it. It is a real object in space, and it just happens to look like a character from a Halloween story.
After you finish your night under the stars, you could unwind with some entertainment news too. Here is the IIFA Awards 2026 full winners list, with Dhurandhar, Chhaava, Baramulla and more taking top honours.
So grab a jacket, find a dark spot and look east. Spot Rigel, and the witch will not be far away. Happy Halloween, UAE.