Zeta Ophiuchi: The Runaway Star with a Turbulent Past

Zeta Ophiuchi, a brilliant blue giant star in the constellation Ophiuchus, is known as the "runaway star" due to its high-speed movement through space. This motion, caused by a past supernova explosion of its companion star, creates a captivating bow shock. Despite its luminosity, interstellar dust obscures its brilliance from casual observers.

From Park Bench to Stardust: Spotting Comet Hale‑Bopp in 1997

Experience the magic of Comet Hale-Bopp through my personal story of a clear March night in Colorado Springs. From capturing the comet on 35 mm film to witnessing its dazzling tail without a telescope, this reflection celebrates the fleeting beauty of great comets and the lifelong wonder they inspire.

Eta Boötis (Muphrid): The Double Star Neighbor Beside Arcturus

Eta Boötis, known as Muphrid, is a subgiant star roughly 37 light-years from Earth, overshadowed by the brighter Arcturus. Muphrid shines with a magnitude of 2.7 and is accompanied by a fainter companion star. Observations reveal challenges in identifying its companions, highlighting its unique charm in the spring sky. η Boötis, HR 5235, HD 121370, HIP 67848, SAO 100766, BD+18°2759, SHJ 169

Messier 20 (NGC 6514): The Trifid Nebula in Sagittarius

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.

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 rushingContinue reading "Messier 87 (NGC 4486): Home of a Famous Black Hole"