250watt HPS question

I have a 2x4 grow box and i am going to start veg stage. How far from the plant does the light go. I know until the hand gets hot but i also heard with hps i can use for veg and flowering but can i just leave the light at the top and dont move during both stages

Well as your plant grow up you will have to move the light up also but you kinda knew that huh? Just kidding, yes you can leave them near the top of the plants in both grow and flower just make sure it's not too close..