Orion’s Belt, open cluster M35, and the Christmas Tree Cluster (NGC 2264)

December 27, 2012–January 3, 2013: Orion's Belt is an excellent target for naked-eye   observers, open cluster M35 in Gemini offers small-telescope owners nice views, and large-telescope owners can seek out the Christmas Tree Cluster (NGC 2264) in Monoceros.
By | Published: December 27, 2012 | Last updated on May 18, 2023
Orion
The constellation Orion — and especially the hunter’s notable belt — is a signpost in the winter sky. Astronomy: Roen Kelly

Each week, Astronomy magazine Senior Editor Michael E. Bakich, a
master at explaining how to observe, posts a podcast about three or more
objects or events you can see in the sky.

Targets for December 27, 2012–January 3, 2013

Naked eye: Orion’s Belt
Small telescope: Open cluster M35
Large telescope: The Christmas Tree Cluster (NGC 2264)