THIS MONTH

May

What's there to see in the night sky?

Hercules Cluster (M13)

Messier 13 (M13), also known as the Hercules Cluster, is one of the most famous and breathtaking globular clusters visible in the night sky. Located approximately 22,200 light-years from Earth, it captivates stargazers with its stunning beauty and vastness.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)

M51, also known as the Whirlpool Galaxy, is a stunning spiral galaxy and one of the most famous and studied galaxies in the night sky. Located in the constellation Canes Venatici, near the Big Dipper, it captivates astronomers with its striking spiral structure.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Southern Pinwheel Galaxy

The Southern Pinwheel Galaxy is a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Hydra. It is approximately half the size of our Milky Way and is one of the closest and brightest barred spiral galaxies in the sky, making it a popular target for astronomers.

SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

The Cigar Galaxy (M82)

M82, also known as the Cigar Galaxy, is a striking irregular galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. Its distinctive edge-on shape gives it the appearance of a cigar or spindle, making it a fascinating target for astronomers.

NORTHERN 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

Pinwheel Galaxy (M101)

The Pinwheel Galaxy is a stunning example of a grand design spiral galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. It is best observed during the spring months and can be seen with a small telescope.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Messier 19 (M19)

M19, a striking globular cluster in Ophiuchus, stands out with its unusual elliptical shape—one of the most elongated known. Best seen from southern latitudes during winter, this dense stellar swarm offers a dazzling glimpse into the ancient heart of the Milky Way.

SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

The Sombrero Galaxy (M104)

The Sombrero Galaxy is a stunning spiral galaxy located in the Virgo constellation, known for its distinctive appearance resembling a sombrero hat. It is one of the brightest and most iconic galaxies visible in the night sky.