Dumbbell Nebula (Messier 27)
The Dumbbell Nebula is a planetary nebula located approximately 1,360 light-years away in the northern constellation Vulpecula (the Fox). With an apparent magnitude of 7.4,… Read More »Dumbbell Nebula (Messier 27)
Messier 97
Big Dipper
The Big Dipper is an asterism formed by seven bright stars in the constellation Ursa Major, the Great Bear. It is one of the most… Read More »Big Dipper
The Night Sky: June 2020
Here are some of the things to see in June:Read More »The Night Sky: June 2020
The Keystone
The Keystone is an asterism formed by four relatively bright stars in the constellation Hercules: Pi, Eta, Zeta and Epsilon Herculis. The trapezoid-shaped pattern makes it easy for observers to identify the constellation and to find several well-known deep sky objects. On a clear night, the Keystone can be seen between the bright Vega, the brightest star in Lyra, and the stars of Corona Borealis, the Northern Crown. The asterism represents Hercules’ torso.
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Owl Nebula – Messier 97
The Owl Nebula, also known as Messier 97 (M97), is a planetary nebula located in Ursa Major. The nebula lies at an approximate distance of 2,030 light years from Earth. It is known for its distinctive shape, resembling a pair of owl-like eyes, that can be seen in larger telescopes.
The estimated age of the Owl Nebula is about 8,000 years. The nebula has the designation NGC 3587 in the New General Catalogue.
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