IC 1396: The Elephant Trunk Nebula in Cepheus

IC 1396 is an open star cluster in the constellation Cepheus, which is part of large emission nebula in the region. It's best viewed during the autumn. The region makes for stunning astrophotography as demonstrated by this photo posted on NASA's site. Struve 2816 (a triple star system) and Struve 2819 (a double star systemContinue reading "IC 1396: The Elephant Trunk Nebula in Cepheus"

Gamma Delphini: A Pretty Double Star in Delphinus

Gamma Delphini is a double star system in the constellation Delphinus. It's best viewed in summer and early autumn. While not as famous or startling as the double star Albireo, Gamma Delphini is a worthy binary not to be missed, as the double stars Gamma-1 and Gamma-2 make a colorful pair. In my case, IContinue reading "Gamma Delphini: A Pretty Double Star in Delphinus"

Messier 50 (NGC 2323): That’s an “M” for Monoceros! An Open Star Cluster in Monoceros

Messier 50 is an open star cluster in the constellation Monoceros. It's best viewed in winter. Discovered by Giovanni Domenico Cassini in 1710, Messier 50 is part of the constellation Monoceros but lies near Canis Major. I've read various descriptions of the cluster over the years, including it looking like a "coil," a "heart," or,Continue reading "Messier 50 (NGC 2323): That’s an “M” for Monoceros! An Open Star Cluster in Monoceros"

Messier 15 (NGC 7078): A Heavy Duty Dense Globular Cluster in Pegasus

Messier 15 is a globular cluster in the constellation Pegasus. It's best viewed in Autumn. In August 1746, astronomers noticed the appearance of a comet called Cheseaux's Comet. A month later on September 7, astronomer Jean-Dominique Maraldi was interested in the new arrival when he landed upon Messier 15 in the constellation Pegasus. Best viewedContinue reading "Messier 15 (NGC 7078): A Heavy Duty Dense Globular Cluster in Pegasus"

Epsilon Lyrae: Four Stars for the Price of Two — A Double Double

Epsilon Lyrae is a double binary system in the constellation Lyra. It's best viewed in summer through early autumn. While some doubles are notable because of contrasting color, Epsilon Lyrae holds a surprise for first-time observers. On first look through binoculars or small scopes, you'll see a pair of stars. Take a closer look, andContinue reading "Epsilon Lyrae: Four Stars for the Price of Two — A Double Double"