Tag Observing

Messier 3 is located in the south-west corner of the constellation Canes Venatici (the Hunting Dogs), near the boundary with Bootes and Coma Berenices. In early May, it is about 90 minutes from culmination as nightfalls, riding high in the southern sky at an altitude of around 60°. It can be observed throughout May’s relatively […]

Amidst the myriad spring galaxies lies NGC 4361, a large and bright planetary nebula located in the southern constellation of Corvus, the Crow. Locating it means dipping low towards the murkier skies close to the horizon, but it’s well worth the extra effort to find and observe it. NGC 4361 forms the apex of an […]

Markarian’s Chain is a remarkable string of at least eight galaxies stretching across the boundary between the constellations Virgo and Coma Berenices. This celestial wonder spans approximately 1.5 degrees in length and is nestled within the heart of the illustrious Virgo Cluster of Galaxies. Visible to observers using telescopes as modest as 150mm (six inches) […]

Tracking down a young Moon early in its lunation is a popular observing adventure. On 9 April, there’s a chance to see the Moon when it is just over 24 hours old (1.02 days with a 1.37 per cent phase) following the new Moon of 8 April at 18:21 UT. At sunset from London and […]

Messier 106, also known as NGC 4258, is a magnificent spiral galaxy residing in the constellation of Canes Venatici (The Hunting Dogs). This celestial marvel is a true standout amongst the many galaxies that populate this northern region of the night sky, showcasing its splendor alongside renowned neighbors like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51), the Sunflower […]

Mare Imbrium, the vast lava plain in the Moon’s north-western quadrant, is the most evident legacy of an ancient, cataclysmic impact event that formed the Imbrium Basin. This immense crater, subsequently flooded by basaltic lava, is encircled by a series of impressive mountain ranges that serve as a testament to the violence of its formation. […]

Messier 95 and Messier 96 are a remarkable pair of spiral galaxies that share striking similarities in their appearance. Despite their close proximity in the night sky, these cosmic companions boast distinct characteristics that make them captivating targets for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers alike. Messier 96 (NGC 3368) is a stunning spiral galaxy that presents […]

The Moon is a treasure trove of fascinating geological features that can be observed with even small- to moderate-aperture telescopes. Among these features are valleys, rilles, and faults that add to the lunar landscape’s appeal. Four of these remarkable formations are the Alpine Valley (Vallis Alpes), Schröter’s Valley (Vallis Schröteri), Rima Ariadaeus and Rima Hyginus, […]

Every year, skywatchers eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Leonid meteor shower, one of the most famous and mesmerizing celestial events. This year, the Leonids are predicted to reach their peak on the morning of November 18th at around 06:00 UT. Under favorable conditions, you can expect to see an impressive display of 10 to […]

Comet C/2023 P1 (Nishimura) is currently making its way towards Earth, shining at a magnitude of around +6. On September 12th, it will reach its closest approach to our planet, coming within a distance of approximately 125.3 million kilometers (0.838 AU). This celestial visitor will also be closest to the Sun on September 17th, at […]