Messier 78 (M78), also known as NGC 2068, is a bright reflection nebula in the constellation Orion. It is part of the Orion Molecular Cloud Complex and is located about 1,600 light-years from Earth.

M78 is illuminated by young, hot blue stars whose light is scattered by surrounding dust, giving it a distinctive bluish glow. The nebula contains numerous Herbig-Haro objects, indicating active star formation.  

While it doesn't have widely known nicknames like some other nebulae, it is sometimes referred to as the "Casper the Friendly Ghost Nebula" due to its ghostly appearance.