Tag Archives: Astronomy

NGC 2353: Taking a Trip to Avery’s Island, a Star Cluster in Monoceros

The faint winter constellation Monoceros features a nice collection of star clusters and deep sky objects, including the famous Christmas Tree cluster and Avery’s Island, also known as NGC 2353. The cluster features more than 100 stars.

NGC 2169: A “37” Tattooed on Orion’s Outstretched Arm

High above Orion’s Nebula and belt lies the star cluster NGC 2169, affectionately known as the “37 Cluster.” This arrangement of stars earned its nickname due to its resemblance to the number 37 when viewed through a small telescope or binoculars. It’s also known as Collinder 83, XY Cluster, and the LE Cluster

6 (Iota) Trianguli: A Bronze and Blue Binary in the Constellation Triangulum

Triangulum is a distinctive northern constellation best observed in autumn and winter, featuring the Messier 33 galaxy and notable double stars like 6 Trianguli. Discovered by William Hershel, this binary system consists of a primary G5 giant and a fainter F5 dwarf star. It is a quadruple system with spectroscopic binaries.

14 Aurigae (Struve 653): A Multiple Star System in Auriga

14 Aurigae, a prominent multi-star system in the Auriga constellation, features a bright primary star of +5 magnitude while the dimmer secondary appears blue. The stars are 286 light years away and separated by 14 arcseconds. As part of the Orion Spur in the Milky Way, 14 Aurigae provides insights into stellar evolution.

12 Comae Berenices: A Bright Double Star Greets You in Coma Berenices

12 Comae Berenices is a pretty double star in the northern constellation of Coma Berenices. At a magnitude around +4.8, backyard astronomers can enjoy this bright binary on spring nights.