Explore the stunning Iris Nebula (NGC 7023 or Caldwell 4), a breathtaking reflection nebula in Cepheus. Discover how the central star illuminates its dust and gas, creating a glowing blue celestial flower. See my sketch and Seestar S50 image to visualize what you can expect to see. Learn about its history, distance (1,300 light-years), and why astrophotographers cherish this beautiful autumn target.
Author Archives: Wayne McGraw
Struve 730: Double Star in Taurus
Get a close look at STF 730, a nearly equal double star perfect for winter observing. This article includes my own telescope sketch and notes on the subtle color contrast between the faintly blue primary and white secondary. Ideal for double star enthusiasts building their observing lists.
Struve 3116: A Tight Double Star in Canis Major
Learn about the tight double star Struve 3116—its close 3.9″ separation, blue-white components, and observing tips. This article also includes my personal sketch so you can see how the pair appears through the eyepiece. Known as SAO 151401, HD 44458.
Altair: A Bright, Fast-Spinning Beacon in the Summer Sky
Discover Altair, one of the brightest stars in the Summer Triangle. This blog explores its rapid spin and includes a personal telescope sketch for stargazing enthusiasts.
ARY 33 (HD 224612): A Wide Double Star in Cassiopeia
Explore the wide double star ARY 33 in Cassiopeia—its characteristics, discovery history, and tips for amateur stargazers to observe this unique stellar pair.
Schedar: The Bright Heart of Cassiopeia
Explore the bright orange star Schedar (α Cassiopeiae) in Cassiopeia. Discover its key facts, visual companions, and a personal observation guide for amateur astronomers. Also known as Alpha Cass and SAO 21609, α Cas, HIP 3179, HR 168, HD 3712, 18 Cas, GC 792
Vesta: The Asteroid You Can Actually See
Explore 4 Vesta, the second-largest object in the asteroid belt and a rare protoplanet. Discover its massive craters, iron core, and the key findings of the NASA Dawn mission.
Antares: Across the Skylines
Follow a lifetime of stargazing from Denver to the Gulf Coast, as the red fire of Antares bridges decades of memory, solitude, and celestial wonder.
The Garden Astronomer 