Explore NGC 1360, the Robin’s Egg Nebula in Fornax, imaged with Seestar S50, revealing its faint oval shape and binary star heart in the night sky.
Tag Archives: Winter
Navi: The Star Behind the Ghost of Cassiopeia
Explore Gamma Cassiopeiae (Navi) and the Ghost Nebula IC 63, its history, stellar energy, and connection to astronaut Gus Grissom.
Messier 1 (NGC 1952): A Champagne Supernova in the Sky
Explore Messier 1 (Crab Nebula), a supernova remnant in Taurus, with detailed sketches, photos, and tips for observing this winter deep-sky gem.
Struve 730: Double Star in Taurus
Get a close look at STF 730, a nearly equal double star perfect for winter observing. This article includes my own telescope sketch and notes on the subtle color contrast between the faintly blue primary and white secondary. Ideal for double star enthusiasts building their observing lists.
Struve 3116: A Tight Double Star in Canis Major
Learn about the tight double star Struve 3116—its close 3.9″ separation, blue-white components, and observing tips. This article also includes my personal sketch so you can see how the pair appears through the eyepiece. Known as SAO 151401, HD 44458.
Gomeisa: The Shining Blue Jewel of Canis Minor
Gomeisa, or Beta Canis Minoris, is a striking blue-white B-type star located 170 light-years from Earth in Canis Minor. With a surface temperature over 11,000 Kelvin and a brightness of magnitude 2.9, it stands out near Procyon. Its rapid rotation and classification as a variable star add to its intrigue for astronomers.
HD 39881 (S 503): A Wide Double Star in Orion
Orion is a prominent winter constellation known for its bright stars, including Betelgeuse and the Orion Nebula, as well as double stars like S 503. This system, consisting of components A and B, offers viewing opportunities with binoculars and telescopes. Recent observations highlighted their visibility despite fading dawn light. Also known as SAO 95004, HD 39881, HR 2067, HIP 28066, BD+13 1036, GC 7469, 0728-03142-1
Iota Cassiopeiae: An Unforgettable Triple
Discover Iota Cassiopeiae, a triple star system hidden in Cassiopeia’s “W.” Through a telescope, it reveals a stunning trio of diamond-like stars.
The Garden Astronomer 