The Spring Triangle, the Mini Coathanger, and irregular galaxy NGC 4449

April 18–25, 2013: The Spring Triangle is an excellent target for naked-eye observers, the Mini Coathanger asterism in Ursa Minor offers small-telescope owners nice views, and large-telescope owners can seek out irregular galaxy NGC 4449 in Canes Venatici.
By | Published: April 18, 2013 | Last updated on May 18, 2023

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Arcturus, Spica, and Denebola form the easily visible Spring Triangle.
  • The Spring Triangle is best viewed without any equipment.
  • A small telescope reveals the Mini Coathanger.
  • A large telescope is needed to see the NGC 4449 galaxy.
Key takeaways sponsored by The Space Store
Spring Triangle asterism in the night sky
The Spring Triangle is easily visible in the April sky and consists of the bright stars Arcturus in Boötes, Spica in Virgo, and Denebola in Leo. // 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 April 18–25, 2013
Naked eye: The Spring Triangle
Small telescope: The Mini Coathanger
Large telescope: Irregular galaxy NGC 4449

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