Messier 96 is one of those galaxies that can break through the haze of suburban light, as long as one has a modest scope and really transparent conditions. Messier 96 (also known as M96 or NGC 3368) is a spiral galaxy approximately 31 million light-years away from Earth.
Author Archives: Wayne McGraw
Messier 100 (NGC 4321): A Grand Design Spiral in Coma Berenices
Messier 100 (M100) is a grand design spiral galaxy located 55 million light-years away in Coma Berenices. Discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1781, it features symmetrical arms with vibrant star-forming regions. M100 is both visually striking and dynamic, making it a favorite for amateur astronomers. This post provides history and personal observations using a Seestar S50. Also known as NGC 4321, UGC 7450, PGC 40153.
Messier 7 (NGC 6475): Ptolemy’s Ancient Cluster Still Shines Bright
Messier 7, or Ptolemy’s Cluster, is a prominent star cluster located in the Scorpius constellation, first recorded by Claudius Ptolemy in 130 AD. This open cluster, visible to the naked eye, contains 80 stars and spans 25 light years. It symbolizes the lasting human fascination with astronomy and the cosmos.
Learn more about the cluster, including a personal observation from Wayne McGraw and photo using a Seestar S50 under suburban skies in Florida.
Messier 25 (IC 4725): A Scattered Jewel in Sagittarius
In the 18th century, Charles Messier cataloged celestial objects while searching for comets, including the beautiful open cluster Messier 25 (M25) in Sagittarius. Approximately 2,000 light-years away, it contains around 600 stars with no nebulosity. M25 is best viewed through binoculars or low-power telescopes during summer nights, offering a delightful starry tapestry. Also known as M25, IC 4725, Melotte 202
Struve 2540 (HD 184360): A Tight Pair Near the Coathanger Asterism
Struve 2540 (HD 184360) is a triple star system in the constellation Vulpecula. The stars lie in the popular Brocchi’s Cluster, nicknamed the Coat Hanger.
STF 2540 may be a tight pair to view under light-polluted stars, but astronomers will appeciate the view as the double floats among a pretty background of faint stars.
The Coathanger Asterism: A Cosmic Clothes Hanger in the Summer Sky
The Coathanger asterism, located in the constellation Vulpecula, is a distinctive pattern of ten stars resembling an old wire hanger. Initially described by Al Sufi in the 10th century, it’s not a true star cluster but an asterism. Ideal for binocular viewing, it’s perfect for casual stargazers. Also known as Brocchi’s Cluster and cataloged as Collinder 399.
Finally Meeting Pluto: A Personal Milestone Under Florida Skies
The author shares about seeing the dwarf planet Pluto from Tampa, Florida using a Seestar S50. Photos of the planet are included.
Xi Serpentis (Nehushtan): A Triple Star in Serpens
Nehushtan, or Xi Serpentis, is a triple star system in the Serpens constellation, 105 light-years away. It will approach within 27 light-years in about 700,000 years. Named after a biblical idol, it showcases the intertwining of astronomy and faith. Observations highlight its brightness and challenging visibility of companions. Also known as 55 Ser, Xi Ser, SAO 160700, HD 159876, HIP 86263, HR 6561, GC 23881
The Garden Astronomer 