... More formally known as IC 2118 , the Witch Head Nebula glows primarily by light reflected from Rigel . Fine dust in the nebula reflects the light. Pictured above , the blue color of the Witch Head Nebula and of the dust surrounding Rigel is caused not only by Rigel 's blue color but because the dust grains reflect blue light more efficiently than red. ... Rigel, the Witch Head Nebula , and gas and dust that surrounds them lie about 800 light-years away. ... IC 2118: The Witch Head Nebula . ...