THIS MONTH

August

What's there to see in the night sky?

Dumbbell Nebula (M27)

The Dumbbell Nebula (M27), visible in late summer and early autumn, is one of the easiest planetary nebulae to spot in the night sky, even with small optical instruments like binoculars.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Lagoon Nebula (M8)

The Lagoon Nebula is a beautiful and prominent emission nebula located in the constellation Sagittarius. It is one of the largest and brightest nebulae in the night sky and is easily visible with binoculars and small telescopes.

NORTHERN/SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

The Ring Nebula (M57)

The Ring Nebula is a famous planetary nebula in Lyra, easily found between the bright stars Vega and Sulafat. Its distinctive ring-like shape and brightness make it a popular target for amateur astronomers.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

The Eagle Nebula (M16)

The Eagle Nebula, located in the constellation Serpens, is best seen during the months of July through October. This stunning emission nebula, known for its 'Pillars of Creation,' is visible through binoculars or a small telescope under dark skies.

NORTHERN/SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

Wild Duck Cluster (M11)

The Wild Duck Cluster in the constellation Scutum is renowned for its V-shaped pattern of stars resembling a flock of ducks. Located in the Milky Way’s rich star fields, it’s a striking target for astronomers.

NORTHERN/SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

Messier 92 (M92)

M92 is a remarkable globular star cluster located in the northern constellation of Hercules, approximately 26,700 light-years from Earth. This ancient celestial object offers a fascinating glimpse into the early stages of the Milky Way’s formation.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Helix Nebula (NGC 7293)

The Helix Nebula, a vast planetary nebula in Aquarius, is often called the 'Eye of God' due to its eerie, eye-like appearance. As one of the closest and largest planetary nebulae, it offers a stunning glimpse into the fate of Sun-like stars.

NORTHERN/SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

Globular Cluster M5

M5 is a stunning collection of stars in the Serpens constellation, one of the brightest and largest globular clusters in the sky. Although it can be viewed as a faint patch of light through binoculars, it's an excellent target for telescope observers.