Deep-Sky Objects
Under dark skies, you can see lots of fascinating deep-sky objects, including nebulas, star clusters,
and a variety of different types of galaxies.
Most deep-sky objects are very faint, so it is important that you find an observing site well away
from light pollution. Take plenty of time to let your eyes adjust to the darkness. Do not expect
these subjects to appear like the photographs you see in books and magazines; many will look like
dim gray smudges. As you become more experienced and your observing skills get sharper, you
will be able to ferret out more and more subtle details and structure.
Deep-Sky Objects, also referred to as “faint-fuzzies” are often hard to find at first. They are
worth the effort, being some of most wonderful things in the night sky. To find deep-sky objects,
look up the seasonal sky charts in the National Audubon Society Constellations Pocket Guide
(starting on pg 34). Find your season and a clear direction and match the stars with the chart.
After locating a constellation that is high in the sky, turn to pg 74 and thumb through the
alphabetical list of constellations and look for the heading “Deep-Sky Objects” when you find the
right page. Many constellations have numerous objects hidden within them that are only visible
with a telescope or binoculars. Pay particular attention to objects with a “Messier Number”, like
The Orion Nebula (M-42) and the Andromeda Galaxy (M-31). First published in 1774, Charles
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