The Trifid Nebula, located in Sagittarius, is best viewed during summer months from June to August. Discovered by Charles Messier in 1764, it serves as a stellar nursery, approximately 5,200 light-years away. Modern telescopes have uncovered hidden stars and complex structures, making it a remarkable subject for backyard astronomers.
Author Archives: Wayne McGraw
NGC 457: The Owl Cluster in Cassiopeia
An owl hides out in Cassiopeia, so on autumn and winter nights, turn your scope toward the constellation and look for cluster and its two bright stars that make up the eyes.
WZ Cassiopeiae: A Scarlett Variable Double Star in Cassiopeia
WZ Cas, known as WZ Cassiopeiae, shines at a variable magnitude between 6.3 and 8.8. It’s classified as a C-N7 III star. It is a red-colored carbon star in the constellation Cassiopeia. It’s also known as SAO 21002, HIP 99, HD 224855.
Messier 87 (NGC 4486): Home of a Famous Black Hole
Most of the public had never heard of the Messier 87 galaxy until a few years ago. This changed on the morning of April 10, 2019, as scientists released the first image of the supermassive black hole at the heart of M87. When the image appeared in my news feed that morning, I recall rushingContinueContinue reading “Messier 87 (NGC 4486): Home of a Famous Black Hole”
IC 4756: Graff’s Cluster in Serpens
Explore IC 4756, a bright open cluster in Serpens visible in summer skies. A beautiful binocular target amid rich star fields and nearby clusters.
Iota Cassiopeiae: An Unforgettable Triple
Discover Iota Cassiopeiae, a triple star system hidden in Cassiopeia’s “W.” Through a telescope, it reveals a stunning trio of diamond-like stars.
The Horsehead Nebula (IC 434): A Shadow in the Stars
The Horsehead Nebula, located in Orion, is recognized for its iconic silhouette but is faint and challenging to observe. First discovered in 1888 by Williamina Fleming, it is a stellar nursery contributing to star formation. Ideal viewing occurs between December and March, away from city lights using larger telescopes.
Messier 21 (NGC 6531): A Compact Open Cluster in Sagittarius
Messier 21, discovered by Charles Messier in 1764, is a compact open star cluster in Sagittarius. At approximately 3,900 light-years away, it contains 57 stars and offers a unique beauty, especially when viewed with binoculars or a telescope. It resides near the Trifid Nebula, making it a notable observation destination.
The Garden Astronomer 