Deep-Sky Objects

Deep-sky objects are celestial objects that exist outside our solar system. Three major types of deep-sky objects are nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies.

At a distance of 12 million light-years and around 105,000 light-years across, NGC 253’s angular length is close to the diameter of the Full Moon.

Deep-Sky Objects

Observe the galaxies of Sculptor

The blue reflection nebula M78 lies about 1,600 light-years away in Orion. It is a cloud of interstellar gas and dust that owes its luminosity to embedded, bright, blue, early B-type stars — making it the brightest diffuse reflection nebula in the Orion B molecular cloud complex.

Deep-Sky Objects

Deep-sky objects to target as a novice observer

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing

Observe a great star cluster: This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher

The Andromeda Galaxy (M31) is the nearest major galaxy, and spans a width equivalent to more than six Full Moons.

Deep-Sky Objects

How to grasp the scale of the cosmos from your backyard

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing

Explore the Hercules Cluster: This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing

Gaze into the Snow Globe: This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher

Deep-Sky Objects

Tools for finding dark skies

A photograph of the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex. The image is dominated by swirling nebulae in various colors — yellows, blues, and hints of red and pink. At lower left lies the star Antares, enveloped by a golden yellow cloud. In the upper right is Rho Ophiuchi, surrounded by a blue reflection nebula. The background is filled with countless stars of varying brightness. Dark dust lanes create striking contrasts throughout the image, particularly in the center. The overall effect is a rich, colorful cosmic tapestry of gas, dust, and stars.

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing

The colors of Rho Ophiuchi: This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing

The North America and Pelican nebulae: This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing, Planets

Spy two planets in the Bull: This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing, The Moon

Spot the Moon and the Pleiades: This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher

Four “bright” members of the Boötes Void hover around 15th magnitude. Each field measures 5' on one side. Credit: Digital sky survey

Deep-Sky Objects, Observing

You can see something in a void. Explore a ‘holy grail’ of astronomy

Popular Observing Topics

Credit: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center/Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons.

The Sun

Safely observing the Sun can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Credit: Ted Hauter.

The Moon

Our nearest celestial neighbor provides many great sights.

Planets

Targeting our solar system’s other worlds is well worth the effort.

Credit: Tony Hallas.

Deep-Sky Objects

Nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies are the night sky’s hidden gems.

Credit: Celestron.

Telescopes & Equipment

Explore the tools that can help you unlock the night sky.

Credit: Peter Michaud, Gemini Observatory.

Astrophotography

Capturing great celestial sights is both an art and a skill.

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