Tag Observing

Messier 4 (NGC 6121) is a standout globular cluster, shining at a remarkable magnitude of +5.8 and spanning an impressive 26 arcminutes across the sky. This makes it one of the largest globular clusters visible in the Messier catalogue. Despite its grand appearance, Messier 4 is relatively close, situated at a distance of approximately 7,200 […]

Sunspots are temporary regions of intense magnetic disturbance on the Sun’s surface, where the energy from below is blocked by magnetic forces. This causes the area to cool down slightly compared to the surrounding surface, creating the dark sunspots visible to observers. When looking at a sunspot, you will notice two distinct parts: a nearly […]

Here is a detailed text for the section “Colorful Double Stars in Boötes” in a blog post format without headings, introduction, or conclusion: Boötes hosts a half-a-dozen or so fine double stars, but there’s no argument about which one is best; it is the wonderfully-named, by F.G.W Struve, Pulcherrima, Latin for ‘most beautiful’, or ‘loveliest’, […]

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 […]