Zeta Aquarii, a binary star system in Aquarius, is about 92 light-years away. First identified by William Herschel in 1777, it appears as a single point to the naked eye. Both stars are similar F-type main-sequence stars, orbiting each other every 587 years, exhibiting complexity beneath their apparent simplicity. This post explores the star and illustrates what it looks like in the telescope. Also known as: STF 2909, SAO 146108, HIP 110960, GC 31398, HR 8558, Zet1 Aqr, 55 Aquarii, HD 213052, 55 Aqr
Tag Archives: Autumn
NGC 6818: Little Gem Nebula in Sagittarius
Discover the Little Gem Nebula (NGC 6818) in Sagittarius—a vivid blue-green bubble marking a star’s final breath, as I observed through my telescope.
Delta¹ and Delta² Gruis: An Optical Double Star
Explore Delta¹ and Delta² Gruis, a striking optical double star in Grus, with viewing tips and a detailed Seestar image.
The Crescent Nebula: A Star’s Fiery Farewell
Discover the NGC 6888 Crescent Nebula—its turbulent origins, glowing arcs, and my sketch and photo showcasing this breathtaking deep-sky marvel.
Messier 2 (NGC 7089): One of the Largest Globular Clusters in the Sky
Explore Messier 2 (M2), a stunning globular cluster in Aquarius. See its 150,000 stars through a sketch, photo, and observing tips for fall skies.
NGC 6946: The Fireworks Galaxy in Cepheus
Discover NGC 6946, the Fireworks Galaxy—an active spiral rich in star formation. Includes Seestar S50 photo, sketch, and backyard observation notes.
Messier 30 (NGC 7099): The Jellyfish Globular Cluster
Explore Messier 30, a stunning globular cluster in Capricornus, with insights into its history, structure, and observing tips. Includes a personal sketch and photo from my own telescope observations.
VV Cephei: The Colossal Supergiant of Cepheus
Explore VV Cephei, a massive red / orange supergiant in Cepheus. Find viewing tips, photos, and sketches for this rare and fascinating star.