Autumn – Page 14 – The Garden Astronomer

16 Cygni: A Double Dose of Yellow Stars in Cygnus

16 Cygni is a double star system in the constellation Cygnus. It’s best viewed in summer through early autumn. By the way, Cygnus is also known as the Northern Cross. 16 Cygni is the right-hand star in the cross. With a small telescope, you’ll be able to see this nice pair of sun-like stars. Known as SAO 31898.

NGC 7686: A Trapezoid-Looking Cluster in Andromeda

The NGC 7686 is an open star cluster in the constellation Andromeda with a buttery yellow star making its mark. It was discovered on December 3, 1787.

Messier 39 (NGC 7092): A Larger Cluster of Straggling Stars in Cygnus

This collection of around 30 stars is only 800-1000 light years away, closer to us than many star clusters. Due to its close proximity, it’s larger and spread across a region larger than the moon.

NGC 1027: Cassiopeia’s Open Cluster Near the Heart Nebula

Cassiopeia, a notable constellation in the Milky Way, contains the open star cluster NGC 1027, located approximately 3,400 light-years away. Although it may not attract as much attention as other celestial objects, it is accessible to backyard astronomers during autumn and winter evenings. NGC 1027 features a visual magnitude of +6.8. Also known as Cr 30 and IC 1824.

NGC 663: A Cluster Known for its “Be” Stars in Cassiopeia

The cluster is notable for several reason: it has several double stars, it sits in front of a molecular cloud so most background stars are blocked, and it contains a high number of “Be” stars.

NGC 7510: An Arrow-like Open Cluster in Cepheus

NGC 7510 is an open star cluster in the constellation of Cepheus. It’s best viewed during the autumn. Some say it looks like an arrow, while some call it the Lobster Claw cluster. I tend to see it as a firework sailing across the sky.

Uranus: On Seeing the Planet for the First Time

There it was—Uranus—no longer a point of light but a small disc colored pale green. It seemed to float among the dim stars.

Almach: Binary Star Jewel in the Heavens

This pair truly rivals the stunning Alberio double! In fact, I may like this double even more. The color contrast showing through my scope tonight is remarkable.