Messier 58 (M58) is barred spiral galaxy in the Virgo constellation. It shows as a faint patch of light in moderate scopes from suburban backyards.
Author Archives: Wayne McGraw
Messier 59 (NGC 4621): A Large Elliptical Galaxy in Virgo
Messier 59 (M59) is an elliptical galaxy in the Virgo constellation. It shows as a faint patch of light in moderate scopes from suburban backyards.
88 Leonis (Struve 1547): A Fairly Wide Binary in Leo
88 Leonis, also cataloged a Struve STF 1547, is a fairly bright binary star in the constellation Leo. This double star is a popular target in spring skies due to its brightness and wider 15.3 arc seconds of separation.
49 Leonis (TX Leo): A Tight Binary and Variable Star in Leo
49 Leonis, also cataloged as TX Leonis or Struve 1450, is a variable and binary star in the constellation Leo. It is a tight binary target.
Astronomy Books and Resources
As an amateur astronomer who also loves books, I share some of my favorite reads related to the field of astronomy. A good guide with resources for those new to the hobby as well as those observers more experienced.
Lowell Observatory
Visit Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, and step into the history of astronomy. From Clyde Tombaugh’s discovery of Pluto to the legacy of Robert Burnham Jr., explore telescopes, exhibits, and the open-deck observatory that continue to inspire stargazers of all ages.
Messier 44 (NGC 2632): A Swarm of Bees in Cancer
From Ptolemy describing M44 as a “nebulous mass in the breast of cancer” to Chinese astronomers calling it a “cloud of pollen,” the Beehive has held the attention of skywatchers over the ages. Also known Messier 44, Praesepe, and NGC 2632.
Messier 67 (NGC 2682): The Ancient King Cobra Cluster
Messier 67, also known as the King Cobra cluster or NGC 2682, is an open star cluster in the constellation of cancer. It’s best viewed in late winter and early spring. It is one of the oldest known star clusters and contains more than 500 stars!
The Garden Astronomer 