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Messier objects are fuzzy patches in the night sky
What are Messier objects? They're a list of 110 star clusters, nebulae and galaxies, compiled by comet-hunter Charles Messier in the 1700s.
January 29, 2026
Meet the Crab Nebula, remnant of an exploding star
The Crab Nebula is visible with binoculars or small telescopes. Scan near bright stars in Taurus to spot this expanding stellar remnant.
January 20, 2026
The Orion Nebula (M42) is a starry nursery
You can see the Orion Nebula as a fuzzy spot in the sky using just your eyes. It's really a vast cloud in space where new stars are forming. Learn more.
December 30, 2025
Triangulum galaxy is 2nd-closest to Milky Way
The Triangulum Galaxy, aka M33, is the farthest object you can see with the unaided eye, if in fact you can see it. But seeing it is a challenge.
November 15, 2025
Large and Small Magellanic Clouds shine in southern skies
Have you seen the Magellanic Clouds? These 2 satellite galaxies of the Milky Way are noticeable features in the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.
October 14, 2025
See the Trifid nebula aka Messier 20 tonight
If you have a dark sky, you can spot the Trifid nebula as a fuzzy patch within the Milky Way. And binoculars or a telescope will reveal more details.
August 28, 2025
The Omega Nebula is a star-forming region
The Omega Nebula, also known as the Swan Nebula or M17, is visible through binoculars and glorious through a telescope. Here's how to find it.
July 10, 2025
Rho Ophiuchi is filled with glorious color
One of the most colorful regions of the sky, Rho Ophiuchi showcases clusters and nebulae galore. This region is a great target for August nights.
June 28, 2025
M5, your new favorite globular star cluster
M5 in Serpens Caput is a refreshing sight through a small telescope, as thousands of stars cluster together into the tightly packed ball of this globular cluster.
June 6, 2025
The awesome beauty of the Eagle Nebula
The Eagle Nebula - aka Messier 16 or M16 - is home to several well-known cosmic structures, including the stunning Pillars of Creation and Stellar Spire.
May 15, 2025
