Explore Messier 75 globular cluster viewed through an 8-inch telescope, showing its dense core and surrounding stars in Sagittarius.
Tag Archives: Sagittarius
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 21 (NGC 6531): A Compact Open Cluster in Sagittarius
Messier 21, discovered by Charles Messier in 1764, is a compact open star cluster in Sagittarius. At approximately 3,900 light-years away, it contains 57 stars and offers a unique beauty, especially when viewed with binoculars or a telescope. It resides near the Trifid Nebula, making it a notable observation destination.
Messier 25 (IC 4725): A Scattered Jewel in Sagittarius
In the 18th century, Charles Messier cataloged celestial objects while searching for comets, including the beautiful open cluster Messier 25 (M25) in Sagittarius. Approximately 2,000 light-years away, it contains around 600 stars with no nebulosity. M25 is best viewed through binoculars or low-power telescopes during summer nights, offering a delightful starry tapestry. Also known as M25, IC 4725, Melotte 202
Messier 22 (NGC 6656): A Cosmic Heavyweight Just Off the Teapot
Messier 22 (M22) is a bright and nearby globular cluster in Sagittarius, notable for its unique features such as a planetary nebula and two black holes. Discovered by Abraham Ihle in 1665 and later cataloged by Charles Messier in 1764, M22 provides insights into the early Milky Way and is ideal for observation. Also known as NGC 6656.
Messier 17 (NGC 6618): The Enchanting Swan Nebula
In the vast expanse of our Milky Way galaxy, amidst a sea of stars, lies an ethereal celestial beauty known as Messier 17 (M17), or more commonly, the Swan Nebula. Named after its graceful swan-like appearance, this stellar nursery lies in the summer southern constellation of Sagittarius.
Messier 108 (NGC 3556): Catching a Wave on Ursa Major’s Surfboard Galaxy
Messier 108, also known as NGC 3556, is a galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. Also known as the Surfboard Galaxy, it appears as a thin dim streak in the eyepiece of small and moderate telescopes under suburban skies.
Messier 23 (NGC 6494): Open Cluster in a Sagittarius Starfield
The constellation Sagittarius is home to Messier 23 (M23), a spacious and radiant open star cluster. This cluster is one of several within the summer Milky Way and can be observed through binoculars in dark sky conditions or a small telescope from the suburbs.
The Garden Astronomer 