NGC_1981 is an open star cluster located in the constellation Orion. It is situated near the famous Orion Nebula and is approximately 1,200 light-years away from Earth. The cluster contains several bright stars, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers. Discovered by William Herschel in 1786, NGC 1981 is estimated to be around 20 million years old. It is part of a larger group of stars that includes the well-known Orion Belt stars. The cluster is best observed during winter months in the Northern Hemisphere.