THIS MONTH

October

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

Andromeda Galaxy (M31)

The Andromeda Galaxy, also known as M31, is the closest spiral galaxy to the Milky Way and one of the most popular and easily observed targets for astronomers, visible to the naked eye from a dark site and easily seen with binoculars.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Triangulum Galaxy (M33)

Messier 33, or the Triangulum Galaxy, is a nearby spiral galaxy in the Triangulum constellation and the third-largest member of the Local Group. It is visible with binoculars or a small telescope and features a faint, spiral structure.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Double Cluster (Caldwell 14)

The Double Cluster in Perseus is a beautiful pair of open star clusters, admired for their stunning display. Positioned close together, they are a favourite among amateur astronomers and stargazers in the autumn and winter skies.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

Great Pegasus Cluster (M15)

The Great Pegasus Cluster is a spectacular globular cluster in the constellation Pegasus. These tightly bound groups of stars, held together by gravity, contain hundreds of thousands of stars, creating a dazzling celestial spectacle.

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

47 Tucanae

47 Tuc is one of the sky’s most impressive globular clusters. Located in the southern constellation Tucana, this cluster is easily visible from southern latitudes. It’s renowned for its sheer brightness and size, making it a favourite for astronomers.

SOUTHERN 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

The Milky Way

During the fall months, the Milky Way offers a breathtaking view of our galaxy’s dense, bright center. Best seen in dark, clear skies, the Milky Way can be observed stretching across the horizon from late September through November in the Northern Hemisphere.