10 top winter binocular treats

You don’t need a telescope to observe these cold weather wonders.

By Phil Harrington

Published: December 27, 2011

The Pleiades (M45)

Photo by Adam Block

Winter skies often provide the clearest viewing of the year, but the cold temperatures that accompany them tend to keep stargazers huddled inside rather than bravely setting up their telescopes. If you find yourself in that boat, then binoculars may be your salvation. Pull them out of their case, step out your front door, and you’re ready to observe.

With that in mind, here are 10 of the season’s best binocular targets to tempt you outside on the next cold, clear night.

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