Murasaki 312 or Murasaki Effect is a quasar-like electromagnetic phenomenon located in or near Federation space. In 2267, it ionized an entire sector, including four solar systems.

Sensor readings from the Enterprise attempted to describe Murasaki 312:

• Negative ionic concentration - 1.64e9×10⁹ meters
• Radiation wavelength - 370 ångströms
• Harmonics - upward along entire spectrum

Captain James T. Kirk of the USS Enterprise was under standing orders to investigate formations similar to Murasaki 312, consequently delaying the Enterprise from a medical supply mission to Makus III, and sending the shuttlecraft Galileo to survey the formation. (TOS: "The Galileo Seven")

In 2367, around stardate 44390,1, the USS Enterprise-D conducted a long-range sensor scan of the Murasaki Quasar. (TNG: "Data's Day")

In an alternate timeline, a tactical situation monitor showing progress of the Klingons in their war with the Federation depicted Murasaki 312. (TNG: "Yesterday's Enterprise")