Learn about Messier 76, the Little Dumbbell Nebula in Perseus, a bipolar planetary nebula with twin lobes and a scorching central star. Includes personal observations and Seestar images.
Author Archives: Wayne McGraw
NGC 752: A Scattered Star Cluster with Some Sparks
NGC 752 is a loose open star cluster in Andromeda, best seen in autumn and winter, offering subtle beauty and a glimpse into stellar aging.
The Quadrantids Meteor Shower and the Turning of the Year
Watch the Quadrantids meteor shower peak in early January. Explore its history, origins, and the fleeting brilliance of winter’s skies.
STT 461 in Cepheus: A Multiple Star System—or a Cosmic Illusion?
The double star Struve 2840 is located in the northern sky within the constellation Cepheus. Backyard astronomers should find it pretty easy to separate Struve 2840’s two stars, which are separated by 18 arcseconds. The pair is also known as STF 2840, SAO 33819, HD 208063, HR 8357.
Comet 3I/ATLAS: Chasing an Interstellar Visitor at Christmas
Explore Comet 3I/ATLAS, a rare interstellar visitor, its discovery, scientific debate, and a quiet personal observation at year’s end.
NGC 663: A Star Cluster Known for its Massive Star Evolution
Explore NGC 663 (Caldwell 10), a rich open star cluster in Cassiopeia, ideal for studying massive stars and double stars.
Ursid Meteor Shower: The Mystery and History of December’s Shooting Stars
A reflective journey through the Ursid meteor shower, blending observations, modern astronomy, and December night skies.
HD 222872: An Uneven Double in Sculptor
HD 222872 is an uneven double star in Sculptor. Learn its magnitudes, separation, distance, and visual observing notes.
The Garden Astronomer 