: By Dave HuestisToday we are going to explore the mythology behind the constellation Andromeda. Then I will highlight two beautiful objects you should attempt to view with either your own telescope or through any of the local observatories’ fine instruments.
: By Glenn ChapleWhat could be a more appropriate telescopic destination for a wintry night in January than the “Blue Snowball?” More formally known as NGC 7662, the Blue Snowball is a beautiful planetary nebula located in Andromeda. Discovered by William Herschel in 1784, it sports as the nickname implies a circular form and eye-pleasing bluish hue.
: By Francine JacksonAfter enjoying the overhead rescue of Andromeda by the prince charming Perseus, you might notice that Perseus has his foot on a tiny little clump of stars. At first glance, many people believe they have found the Little Dipper, not realizing that the Little Dipper is a part of our northern circumpolar sky, visible whenever you care to look in that direction; instead, that tiny cuplike group is the Pleiades.
: By Glenn ChapleLast month, I suggested that our featured object, Albireo, may not be the most beautiful double star in the sky and I’d introduce a rival this month. If you guessed that Albireo’s challenger is Almach, the gamma (?) star in Andromeda, you’d be correct!
: By Francine JacksonOnce again, the sign of the new season is beginning to make its way higher and higher in the sky. As October begins, the Great Square, symbol of fall, is getting easier to find in the southeast.
: By Francine JacksonAt this time of year, even though the season of summer ends this month and fall begins, the sky takes a little longer to shift to its next season. The Summer Triangle is still in a beautiful observing position, not really giving the fall constellations a chance to come to full view. So, while we’re waiting, it might be good to turn back to the north and see what is happening there.
: By Glenn ChapleAndromeda is home to a fine collection of double stars. Here are eight of the best. Data on magnitudes and separation were taken from the Washington Double Star Catalog.
