Tag Observing

The Wild Duck Cluster, known scientifically as Messier 11 and cataloged as NGC 6705, is a breathtaking assemblage of stellar beauty that captivates astronomers and skywatchers alike. Nestled within the constellation Scutum, this open cluster enchants with its rich density of stars, earning it the affectionate nickname for its resemblance to a flock of wild […]

The occultation of Saturn by the Moon offers a remarkable celestial spectacle for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. On the pre-dawn of 21 August, as the nearly full Moon gracefully passes in front of the ringed giant, it creates an opportunity for all to witness an exquisite dance of cosmic bodies. For those in the […]

The annual Perseid meteor shower, a sublime cosmic ballet, enchants stargazers with its dazzling display. This year’s peak viewing is poised for a spectacular show, reaching its zenith on the night of August 12th into the early hours of August 13th. During this period, stargazers can expect to witness a breathtaking array of meteors, with […]

On the 9th of August, an extraordinary astronomical event unfolds as Titan, the largest moon of Saturn, transitions behind the gas giant, creating a spectacular occultation. This phenomenon occurs at approximately 4:45 am BST (03:45 to 06:25 UT), marking a moment of profound cosmic alignment that captures the attention of both amateur and professional astronomers […]

On the mornings of 13 and 14 August, stargazers will witness a spectacular astronomical event as Mars and Jupiter align beautifully in the sky. The two planets will appear remarkably close, with Mars positioned roughly 23 arcminutes above and to the left of brilliant Jupiter. This proximity is particularly noteworthy as it is a distance […]

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 […]