NGC 1988 is an open star cluster located in the constellation of Lepus. It is approximately 1,200 light-years away from Earth and contains several young, bright stars. The cluster is part of a larger region of star formation, showcasing the dynamic processes of stellar evolution. Discovered by John Herschel in 1834, NGC 1988 is notable for its relatively loose structure compared to other star clusters. It is often studied by astronomers to understand the formation and development of stars in our galaxy, providing insights into the life cycles of stellar objects.