Requirements:
Image all 110 Messier objects and keep a record of your observations. Your notes must include:
a. Date and Time of observations (local time or UT)
b. Latitude and Longitude of observations
c. Seeing and Transparency
d. The Aperture size of the telescope
e. Details of imaging equipment used.
f. A description of the Messier objects.
Imaging locations:
Home, Chesterfield, MO
(38.631336, -90.552773)
Chesterfield Mall Parking Lot/Sacks Library
(38.652658, -90.566712)
Green Bank Observatory
(38.427152, -79.831531)
Re-Load Campground, Beattyville, KY
(37.641279, -83.712489)
Prior to the announcement of the Imaging Messier OP, I used various Slooh BIG telescopes to capture images of all the Messier objects. See here for much better images of all the Messiers.
Details of imaging equipment used:
Imaging scope Seestar S50 Dwarf II
Aperture 50 mm 24 mm
Focal ratio f/5 f/4.2
Focal length 250 mm 100 mm
Optical lens Apochromatic triplet four-element one ED glass component
Mount type Alt-azimuth Alt-Az
Camera information
Sensor IMX462 IMX 415
Resolution 1920 x 1080 pixels 3,840 × 2,160 pixels
Exposure length 10 seconds/image varies up to 15 seconds
Gain 80 varies
Image scale 2.37 arcsec/pixel 3 arcseconds/pixel
Pre crop FOV 1.29º x 0.73º 3.2° × 1.6°
Filter(s) LP & UV/IR cut UHC light-pollution UV/IR cut
Pixel size 2.9 μm 1.45 μm
Binning 1x 1x or 2x
Other information for both SeeStar S50 and Dwarf II
Image calibration System software as part of process
Mount Control Samsung Android tablet running free App
Stacking Mount software
Post-processing GraXpert, Siril v 1.24, PhotoShop CS2
In the spring of 2025 my Dwarf II stopped working. It has been replaced with a Dwarf III.
What I'd Like to Accomplish
I've been both an imager and visual observer since last century. I've practiced the ideas behind Electronically Assisted Astronomy (EAA) for over a decade and know that even with exposures less than thirty seconds, you can see more in an image than at the eyepiece on a big scope. Even with that, it seems like I need to drive for an hour to be able to really "see" things with my old imaging rig. I'm getting too old to drive all night and schlep the equipment. I need a change.
In the past year (2024), smart telescopes have become the rage. My wife bought me a SeeStar S50 for our anniversary this past June (2024). It is minimal in size, easy to set up and use, and seems almost a foolproof turn-key system. I was astounded to see what a five-minute stack of 10-second exposures could do from my Bortle scale 7-8 front yard. I've decided to use it to capture the Messier Objects. On the larger targets, I'll use my Dwarf II smart scope.
I plan to image the Messier Catalog using my SeeStar from locations at or near my house whenever possible. The house lacks views between the SE and NW, so I'll need another location to get the entire sky. My first choice is the parking lot of the abandoned Chesterfield Mall at the intersection of I64 and Clarkson Rd (the Mall closure caused me to move to the Sachs Library parking lot about 300 yards away). A SeeStar's default exposure is 10 seconds with a gain of 80. Targets will be allowed to stack the exposures for at least five minutes, but never more than one-half hour. I'll adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation with the SeeStar and also post-process the SeeStar frames with GraXpert & Siril for better results. Both the SeeStar saved JPGs and cropped Siril images will be displayed below.
SeeStar S50s are far from perfect. They are built to display on a vertical cell phone screen using a sensor that is 1089 (H)x1920 (V) pixels and have a 0.73°x1.29° field of view. The large FOV means many targets will be small in the frame and that the low resolution won't be much help in zooming in. Add to that the field rotation that comes from the Alt/Az mount means you won't see many (any?) in the photo section of the Reflector or other Astronomy magazines. Still, what can be captured is much better than what can be seen visually in a much bigger scope like my 12" SkyWatcher Dobsonian, particularly in the light polluted area I plan to use.
I should mention that I'm very red/green colorblind. The colors below look good to me but to people with normal vision, they may be a bit strange.
Capture and Post-Processing
Most of the images below come from the saved stacked SeeStar or Dwarf II fit files. The images are loaded onto a Win11 laptop via USB3, GraXpert is used to remove gradients, sharpen, and save. Siril 1.24 (later 1.4) is used for photometric color calibration, to remove green noise, and to stretch with Histogram Transformation and/or Generalized Hyperbolic Stretch Transformation. The AstroBBQ_SharpenMedium script is run followed by saving the resulting image as a .jpg. Two forms are shown below. The image on the right is the SeeStar 0.73°x1.29° field, while the second is a zoomed and crop of the SeeStar's to improve the view.
Note: Over the year it took to capture the Messier images there were several imaging software upgrades. Siril is now at vastly superior version 1.4.0 with upgraded features. The basic image processing is still the same, but later images used curves for stretching, star reduction, and better sharpening.
My Descriptions
I've successfully completed many Astronomical League Observing Programs. Along the way I've learned how to classify globular clusters with the Shapley-Sawyer system, open clusters with the Trumpler system, and galaxies with Hubble's "tuning fork" system. I've included my personal impressions of what they are in the descriptions below. They are based on what I see in the images, not what Google shows.
Object information and Imaging Data
Post-processed with Siril and to cropped to a larger FOVd
SeeStar Output
Messier number: M001
NGC number: NGC 1952
Common name: Crab Nebula
Object type: Supernova remnant
Constellation: Taurus
Magnitude: 8.40
Size (arcminutes): 420" × 290"
Right ascension: 05h 34m 31.94s
Declination: +22 00' 52.2"
Image data
Date: 10/9/2024
Time: 01:08 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 90
Total exposure: 15 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
While M1 is a bit small in the actual SeeStar image, the enlarged picture above shows a good amount of color and detail. I always thought that M1 was fairly symmetrical, but a close look here shows that a very faint jet goes out to the right.
Messier number: M002
NGC number: NGC 7089
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Aqr
Magnitude: 6.5
Size (arcminutes): 16'
Right ascension: 21h 33m 27.02s
Declination: -00 49' 23.7"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 11:55 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M2 has a very concentrated center. Shapley-Sawyer class II.
Messier number: M003
NGC number: NGC 5272
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: CVn
Magnitude: 6.2
Size (arcminutes): 18'
Right ascension: 13h 42m 11.62s
Declination: +28 22' 38.2"
Image data
Date: 6/5/2024
Time: 09:45 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 116
Total exposure: 19.3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M3 has a center with a bit of looseness.. Shapley-Sawyer class VI. It looks to be about the same size as M2 above.
Messier number: M004
NGC/IC number: NGC 6121
Common name: Spider Globular
Object type: Globular cluster
Constellation: Scorpius
Magnitude: 5.6
Size (arcminutes): 26'
Right ascension: 16h 23m 35.22s
Declination: -26° 31' 32.7"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 03:00 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 91
Total Exposure: 15.2 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
M4 has a very spread out center and almost looks like an open cluster in the image. Shapley-Sawyer class X.
Messier number: M005
NGC number: NGC 5904
Common name: Rose Cluster
Object type: GC
Constellation: Ser
Magnitude: 5.6
Size (arcminutes): 23'
Right ascension: 15h 18m 33.22s
Declination: +02 04' 51.7"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 9:37:00 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M5 has a center with a bit of concentration. Shapley-Sawyer class V. It looks to be a bit bigger than the globular clusters above.
Messier number: M006
NGC number: NGC 6405
Common name: Butterfly Cluster
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sco
Magnitude: 4.2
Size (arcminutes): 25'
Right ascension: 17h 40.1m
Declination: -32 13'
Image data
Date: 7/3/2024
Time: 11:54 PM EDT
Location: Green Bank
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
M6's large number of stars have no particular central concentration, a range of brightness from medium to bright. I'd say Trumpler classification of II 2 r.
Messier number: M007
NGC number: NGC 6475
Common name: Ptolemy's Cluster
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sco
Magnitude: 3.3
Size (arcminutes): 80'
Right ascension: 17h 53m 51.2s
Declination: -34 47' 34"
Image data
Date: 7/3/2024
Time: 11:10 PM EDT
Location: Green Bank
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
M7 doesn't seem to have as many stars as M6. They have a bit more central concentration and brightness range. I'd say Trumpler classification of II 3 m.
Messier number: M008
NGC number: NGC 6523
Common name: Lagoon Nebula
Object type: Nebula with cluster
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 4.6
Size (arcminutes): 90' × 40'
Right ascension: 18h 03m 37s
Declination: -24 23' 12"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 8:54 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
While this image was taken in September, M8 was one of the first targets I tried with my SeeStar after its arrival earlier in June. M8 convinced me that SeeStar imaging was for real.
Messier number: M009
NGC number: NGC 6333
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Oph
Magnitude: 7.7
Size (arcminutes): 9.3'
Right ascension: 17h 19m 11.78s
Declination: -18 30' 58.5"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 08:44 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M9 has a center with a bit of concentration. Shapley-Sawyer class VII. It looks to be a bit smaller than the globular clusters above
Messier number: M010
NGC number: NGC 6254
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Oph
Magnitude: 6.6
Size (arcminutes): 20'
Right ascension: 16h 57m 8.92s
Declination: -04 05' 58.07"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 10:47 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
M9 has a center with a bit of concentration. Shapley-Sawyer class VII. It looks to be a bit larger than most of the globular clusters above. I'm impressed with the sharpness of the enlarged image.
Messier number: M011
NGC number: NGC 6705
Common name: Wild Duck Cluster
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sct
Magnitude: 5.8
Size (arcminutes): 22.8'
Right ascension: 18h 51.1m
Declination: -06 16'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 09:54 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Always a good target for outreach, M11 is a Trumpler I3r open cluster. There's a nice dark string from the top of the enlarged image and to the right of the open cluster.
Messier number: M012
NGC number: NGC 6218
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Oph
Magnitude: 6.7
Size (arcminutes): 16'
Right ascension: 16h 47m 14.18s
Declination: -01 56' 54.7"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 10:39 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 31
Total exposure: 5.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
One of two globular clusters in the heart of Oph (M10 is the other). The center isn't too particularly concentrated...Shapley-Sawyer IX,
Messier number: M013
NGC number: NGC 6205
Common name: Great Hercules Cluster
Object type: GC
Constellation: Her
Magnitude: 5.8
Size (arcminutes): 20'
Right ascension: 16h 41m 41.24s
Declination: +36 27' 35.5"
Image data
Date: 6/2/2024
Time: 09:18 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 54
Total exposure: 9 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
One of my favorite globular clusters with a Shapley-Sawyer of V. The SeeStar image shows the Guardians on the right edge and to the left and below the globular cluster.
Messier number: M014
NGC number: NGC 6402
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Oph
Magnitude: 7.6
Size (arcminutes): 11'
Right ascension: 17h 37m 36.15s
Declination: -03 14' 45.3"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 11:31 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 18
Total exposure: 3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
A nice core with distinct stars. Shapley-Sawyer VIII
Messier number: M015
NGC number: NGC 7078
Common name: Great Pegasus Cluster
Object type: GC
Constellation: Peg
Magnitude: 6.2
Size (arcminutes): 18'
Right ascension: 21h 29m 58.33s
Declination: +12 10' 01.2"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 11:38 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
A nice bright core with distinct stars outside. Shapley-Sawyer IV.
Messier number: M016
NGC number: NGC 6611
Common name: Eagle Nebula
Object type: H II region nebula with cluster
Constellation: Ser
Magnitude: 6.4
Size (arcminutes): 70' x 50'
Right ascension: 18h 18m 48s
Declination: -13 49'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 9:42 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
My first shot at post processing this was pretty dismal. After getting all the Messier images I decided to reprocess this and after a year's practice this turned out better.
Messier number: M017
NGC number: NGC 6618
Common name: Omega, Swan, Horseshoe, Lobster, or Checkmark Nebula
Object type: H II region nebula with cluster
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 6
Size (arcminutes): 11'
Right ascension: 18h 20m 26s
Declination: -16 10' 36"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 9:32 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
I'm so impressed with how well a five-minute exposure from light polluted Chesterfield does with a SeeStar compared to what I can see with my 12" dob from really dark skies.
Messier number: M018
NGC number: NGC 6613
Common name: Black Swan Cluster
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 7.5
Size (arcminutes): 9.8'
Right ascension: 18h 19.9m
Declination: -17 08'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 10:05 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
My red/green color blind eyes can't see any color in the stars in this image. Trumpler II,3,p
Messier number: M019
NGC/IC number: NGC 6273
Common name: –
Object type: Globular cluster
Constellation: Ophiuchus
Magnitude: 6.8
Size (arcminutes): 17'
Right ascension: 17h 02m 37.69s
Declination: -26° 16' 04.6"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 03:50 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 94
Total Exposure: 15.7 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
This globular cluster isn't the normal spherical shape. It looks elongated...taller than wide. Shapley-Sawyer VIII.
Messier number: M020
NGC number: NGC 6514
Common name: Trifid Nebula
Object type: H II region nebula with cluster
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 6.3
Size (arcminutes): 28'
Right ascension: 18h 02m 23s
Declination: -23 01' 48"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 9:11 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
One of the features of Siril is the ability to link to Starlink to remove stars from an image for further post-processing. This is the result using the SeeStar data. Pretty impressive for five minutes.
Messier number: M021
NGC number: NGC 6531
Common name: Webb's Cross Cluster
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 6.5
Size (arcminutes): 14'
Right ascension: 18h 04.6m
Declination: -22 30'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 9:11 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Once again no color. Trumpler I,3, r
Messier number: M022
NGC number: NGC 6656
Common name: Great Sagittarius Cluster
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 5.1
Size (arcminutes): 32'
Right ascension: 18h 36m 23.94s
Declination: -23 54' 17.1"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 9:21 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
This is one of my favorite globular clusters. It is easy to find just up and east of the top of the Teapot. Shapley-Sawyar VII,
Messier number: M023
NGC number: NGC 6494
Common name: –
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 5.5
Size (arcminutes): 35'
Right ascension: 17h 56.8m
Declination: -19 01'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 10:39 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
SeeStar, Siril, my eyes? No clue why there's no color again with open clusters. I wouldn't think that a ten second exposure and 5 minute stack would cause saturation on ALL the stars. Oh well, Trumpler I, 2, r
Messier number: M024
NGC number: IC 4715
Common name: Small Sagittarius Star Cloud
Object type: Milky Way star cloud
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 2.5
Size (arcminutes): 2 x1
Right ascension: 18h 17m
Declination: -18 33'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 10:27 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Impressive dark nebulae in the star cloud.
Messier number: M025
NGC number: IC 4725
Common name: –
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 4.6
Size (arcminutes): 36'
Right ascension: 18h 31.6m
Declination: -19 15'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 10:16 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
There are a number of interesting lines of three stars each in this image including what I'd call bull horns to the right of center. Trumpler I, 2, r
Messier number: M026
NGC number: NGC 6694
Common name: –
Object type: OC
Constellation: Sct
Magnitude: 8.0
Size (arcminutes): 14'
Right ascension: 18h 45.2m
Declination: -09 24'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 10:49 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M25 (above) had lines, here I see many curves😁. Trumpler II,2,m
Messier number: M027
NGC number: NGC 6853
Common name: Dumbbell Nebula
Object type: Planetary nebula
Constellation: Vul
Magnitude: 7.4
Size (arcminutes): 8.0' × 5.6'
Right ascension: 19h 59m 36.340s
Declination: +22 43' 16.09"
Image data
Date: 6/7/2024
Time: 12:49 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 29
Total exposure: 4.83 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
Easy to see color here (don't ask me to say what it is). Round at the ends pinched in the middle, and detail in the cloud.
Messier number: M028
NGC number: NGC 6626
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 6.8
Size (arcminutes): 11.2'
Right ascension: 18h 24m 32.89s
Declination: -24 52' 11.4"
Image data
Date: 10/19/2024
Time: 07:58 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
A concentrated core that looks like a blob. If I were to do it again I might try deconvolution. Shapley-Sawyer somewhere between III and V.
Messier number: M029
NGC number: NGC 6913
Common name: Cooling Tower
Object type: OC
Constellation: Cyg
Magnitude: 7.1
Size (arcminutes): 7'
Right ascension: 20h 23m 56s
Declination: +38 31' 24"
Image data
Date: 6/7/2024
Time: 12:27 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 25
Total exposure: 4.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
From here on out there will be no mention of stellar colors. This is a pretty unimpressive open cluster with a Trumpler of III,3,p
Messier number: M030
NGC/IC number: NGC 7099
Common name: Jellyfish Cluster
Object type: Globular cluster
Constellation: Capricornus
Magnitude: 7.2
Dimensions: 12'
Right ascension: 21h 40m 22.12s
Declination: -23° 10' 47.5"
Image data
Date: 07/24/2025
Time: 01:33 AM CDT
Location: Danville
Scope: SeeStar S50
Frames: 120
Time: 20.0
Filters: IR Cut/LP
The final capture I needed to complete the Messier Catalog. A really blob of a center (probably overexposed in processing). Shapley Sawyer IV or V
Messier number: M31
NGC number: NGC 224
Common name: Andromeda Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Andromeda
Magnitude: 3.4
Size (arcminutes): 3.167 × 1
Right ascension: 00h 42m 44.3s
Declination: +41 16' 09"
Image data
Date: 10/2/2024
Time: 07:58 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: Dwarf II
# frames: 247
Total exposure: 41.167 minutes
Filter(s): Moon and Sky Glow
The first Messier that is too big for the SeeStar. By 2025 the mosaic mode would have worked. It is easy to see M32 and M101 in the pic as well as dark lanes. The core looks good, not too big or saturated.
Messier number: M32
NGC number: NGC 221
Common name: Andromeda Satellite #1
Object type: Dwarf elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Andromeda
Magnitude: 8.1
Size (arcminutes): 8.7' × 6.5'
Right ascension: 00h 42m 41.8s
Declination: +40 51' 55"
Image data
Date: 10/2/2024
Time: 07:58 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: Dwarf II
# frames: 247
Total exposure: 41.167 minutes
Filter(s): Moon and Sky Glow
This is really the same picture as above, just zoomed and recentered to show M32. From the picture, it is an E3 type galaxy.
Messier number: M33
NGC number: NGC 598
Common name: Triangulum/Pinwheel Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Triangulum
Magnitude: 5.7
Size (arcminutes): 70.8' x 41.7'
Right ascension: 01h 33m 50.02s
Declination: +30 39' 36.7"
Image data
Date: 10/5/2024
Time: 8:51 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 180
Total exposure: 30 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
A pretty spiral galaxy (SA) that is large and bright.
Messier number: M34
NGC number: NGC 1039
Common name: Spiral Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Perseus
Magnitude: 5.5
Size (arcminutes): 35'
Right ascension: 02h 42.1m
Declination: +42 46'
Image data
Date: 10/5/2024
Time: 11:06 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Trumpler I 3 m. It almost looks like a dark nebula in the right center by the swirl.
Messier number: M035
NGC number: NGC 2168
Common name: Shoe-Buckle Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Gemini
Magnitude: 5.3
Size (arcminutes): 28'
Right ascension: 06h 09.1m
Declination: +24 21'
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 09:27 pm CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 18
Total exposure: 3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
An impressive, large open cluster. Trumpler III 3 r
Messier number: M036
NGC number: NGC 1960
Common name: Pinwheel Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Auriga
Magnitude: 6.3
Size (arcminutes): 12'
Right ascension: 05h 36m 12s
Declination: +34 08' 04"
Image data
Date: 10/9/2024
Time: 12:58 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Smaller than M35, but much more concentrated. Trumpler I,3,m
Messier number: M037
NGC number: NGC 2099
Common name: Salt and Pepper Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Auriga
Magnitude: 6.2
Size (arcminutes): 24'
Right ascension: 05h 52m 18s
Declination: +32 33' 02"
Image data
Date: 10/9/2024
Time: 12:50 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Many more stars than M35 or M36. Trumpler I,1, r
Messier number: M038
NGC number: NGC 1912
Common name: Starfish Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Auriga
Magnitude: 7.40
Size (arcminutes): 21'
Right ascension: 05h 28m 42s
Declination: +35 51' 18"
Image data
Date: 10/9/2024
Time: 12:42 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
A loosely, spread out open cluster. Trumpler II,2,r,
Messier number: M039
NGC number: NGC 7092
Common name: –
Object type: OC
Constellation: Cyg
Magnitude: 4.6
Size (arcminutes): 29'
Right ascension: 21h 31m 42s
Declination: +48 26' 00"
Image data
Date: 6/7/2024
Time: 12:37 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 31
Total exposure: 5.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
A really sparce and star poor open cluster. Trumpler III2p
Messier number: M040
NGC number: –
Common name: Winnecke 4
Object type: Optical Double
Constellation: UMa
Magnitude: 8.4
Size (arcminutes): 51.7"
Right ascension: 12h 22m 12.5s
Declination: +58 04' 59"
Image data
Date: 6/9/2024
Time: 21:23 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 19
Total exposure: 3.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
One of Messier's goofs. It is an optical double star, not one where the stars are bound together.
Messier number: M041
NGC number: NGC 2287
Common name: Little Beehive Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Canis Major
Magnitude: 4.5
Size (arcminutes): 38'
Right ascension: 06h 46.0m
Declination: -20 46'
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 08:16 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Amazing. An open cluster that shows some color. It is somewhat concentrated. Trumpler I,3,r
Messier number: M042
NGC number: NGC 1976
Common name: Great Orion Nebula
Object type: H II region nebula
Constellation: Orion
Magnitude: 4
Size (arcminutes): 65' x 60'
Right ascension: 05h 35m 17.3s
Declination: -05 23' 28"
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 07:47 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
Always good to see and a five minute exposure does wonders.
Messier number: M043
NGC number: NGC 1982
Common name: De Mairan's Nebula
Object type: H II region nebula (part of the Orion Nebula)
Constellation: Orion
Magnitude: 1.6
Size (arcminutes): 20' x 15'
Right ascension: 05h 35.6m
Declination: −05 16′
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 07:47 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
I've always thought of this as M42's poor neighbor. It is often overlooked.
Messier number: M044
NGC number: NGC 2632
Common name: Beehive Cluster or Praesepe
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Cancer
Magnitude: 3.7
Size (arcminutes): 95'
Right ascension: 08h 40.4m
Declination: +19 59'
Image data
Date: 3/2/2025
Time: 08:51 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: Dwarf II
# frames: 35
Total exposure: 8.75 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M41's FOV is much too large for a SeeStar to capture, thus the Dwarf II image. Google says there are about 1000 stars in the cluster.
Messier number: M045
NGC number: –
Common name: Pleiades, Seven Sisters or Subaru
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Taurus
Magnitude: 1.6
Size (arcminutes): 2
Right ascension: 03h 47m 24s
Declination: +24 07' 00"
Image data
Date: 10/9/2024
Time: 12:31 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 221
Total exposure: 36.83 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Description: First try at a SeeStar generated beta mosiac.
I only managed to pick up a bit of nebulosity in M45. Trumpler II, 3, m, n
Messier number: M046
NGC number: NGC 2437
Common name: –
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Puppis
Magnitude: 6
Size (arcminutes): 22.8'
Right ascension: 07h 41.8m
Declination: -14 49'
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 08:28 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
A rather impressive open cluster with many stars and fairly well concentrated. Trumpler II, 2, r
Messier number: M047
NGC number: NGC 2422
Common name: –
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Puppis
Magnitude: 4.4
Size (arcminutes): 30'
Right ascension: 07h 36.6m
Declination: -14 30'
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 09:11 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 18
Total exposure: 3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
A large open cluster with a medium amount of stars, spread out with no concentrated center. Trumpler III, 2, m
Messier number: M048
NGC number: NGC 2548
Common name: –
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Hydra
Magnitude: 5.5
Size (arcminutes): 30'
Right ascension: 08h 13.7m
Declination: -05 45'
Image data
Date: 3/9/2025
Time: 08:30 PM CDT
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
This open cluster is really spread out, trailing upwards to the right. Trumpler I,2,m
Messier number: M049
NGC/IC number: NGC 4472
Common name: –
Object type: Elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 8.4
Dimensions: 10.2' × 8.3'
Right ascension: 12h 29m 46.7s
Declination: +08° 00' 02"
Imaging data
Date: 04/22/2025
Time: 09:00 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
Frames: 180
Time: 30.0 minutes
Filters: IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
A pretty small elliptical galaxy (E1) with a close star in the zoomed field.
Messier number: M050
NGC number: NGC 2323
Common name: Heart-Shaped Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Monoceros
Magnitude: 5.9
Size (arcminutes): 16'
Right ascension: 07h 03.2m
Declination: -08 20'
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 09:01 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 18
Total exposure: 3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Lots of stars, concentred center with a wide range of brightness. Trumpler II, 3, m
Messier number: M051
NGC number: NGC 5194, NGC 5195
Common name: Whirlpool Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: CVn
Magnitude: 8.4
Size (arcminutes): 11.2' × 6.9'
Right ascension: 13h 29m 52.7s
Declination: +47 11' 43"
Image data
Date: 6/2/2024
Time: 10:19 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 105
Total exposure: 17.5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
This is where I discovered that galaxies need more than 5 minutes of exposure from my light polluted house. It is also my first real success with Siril on a galaxy.
Messier number: M052
NGC number: NGC 7654
Common name: Scorpion Cluster
Object type: OC
Constellation: Cas
Magnitude: 7.3
Size (arcminutes): 13'
Right ascension: 23h 24.2m
Declination: +61 35'
Image data
Date: 6/10/2024
Time: 12:13 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Another impressive open cluster. It is taller than wide. Trumpler I, 2, r
Messier number: M053
NGC number: NGC 5024
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: CBr
Magnitude: 7.6
Size (arcminutes): 13'
Right ascension: 13h 12m 55.25s
Declination: +18 10' 05.4"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 09:25 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 31
Total exposure: 5.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
This globular cluster has a really concentrated center. I estimate Shapley-Sawyer III
Messier number: M054
NGC number: NGC 6715
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 7.6
Size (arcminutes): 12'
Right ascension: 18h 55m 03.33s
Declination: -30 28' 47.5"
Image data
Date: 10/19/2024
Time: 08:17 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
The center looks more concentrated than M53 (above) but the stars are also blotchy. I'm guessing here, but I think it is really less than M53. Shapley-Sawyer IV. The blotchy structure is probably due to poor seeing when imaged. It is one of the three globular clusters along the bottom of the Teapot in Sgr.
Messier number: M055
NGC number: NGC 6809
Common name: Specter Cluster
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 6.3
Size (arcminutes): 19'
Right ascension: 19h 39m 59.71s
Declination: -30 57' 53.1"
Image data
Date: 10/19/2024
Time: 08:36 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
M55 is a globular cluster that might almost be called an open cluster. There's very little in the way of a concentrated center. Shapley-Sawyer IX
Messier number: M056
NGC number: NGC 6779
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Lyra
Magnitude: 8.3
Size (arcminutes): 8.8'
Right ascension: 19h 16m 35.57s
Declination: +30 11' 00.5"
Image data
Date: 6/7/2024
Time: 12:14 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
M56 is globular cluster with a center that isn't very concentrated. Shapley-Sawyer IX It looks a little taller than wide.
Messier number: M057
NGC number: NGC 6720
Common name: Ring Nebula
Object type: Planetary nebula
Constellation: Lyra
Magnitude: 8.8
Size (arcminutes): 230" × 230"
Right ascension: 18h 53m 35.079s
Declination: +33 01' 45.03"
Image data
Date: 6/5/2024
Time: 11:12 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 25
Total exposure: 4.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
The ring nebula is always popular at outreach sessions, and being able to grab it in five minutes is a real plus. A massive zoom does show color but I don't see the central star.
Messier number: M058
NGC/IC number: NGC 4579
Common name: –
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 9.7
Size (arcminutes): 5.9' × 4.7'
Right ascension: 12h 37m 43.5s
Declination: +11° 49' 05"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 12:00 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 108
Total Exposure: 18.0 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
The core of M58, an SBb barred spiral, looks a bit off center to me in this image.
Messier number: M059
NGC/IC number: NGC 4621
Common name: –
Object type: Elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 9.6
Size (arcminutes): 5.4' × 3.7'
Right ascension: 12h 42m 02.3s
Declination: +11° 38' 49"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 02:00 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 133
Total Exposure: 22.2 minutes
Filter(s): Moon and Sky Glow
An elliptical galaxy (E6) that is really stretched out. It has a bright core and faint edges.
Messier number: M060
NGC/IC number: NGC 4649
Common name: –
Object type: Elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 8.8
Size (arcminutes): 7.4' × 6.0'
Right ascension: 12h 43m 39.6s
Declination: +11° 33' 09"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 02:30 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 138
Total Exposure: 23.0 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
M60 looks to be a stretched out elliptical galaxy (E3) with a bright core. The neighbor is the smaller and dimmer NGC 4647.
Messier number: M061
NGC/IC number: NGC 4303
Common name: Swelling Spiral
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 9.7
Size (arcminutes): 6.5' × 5.8'
Right ascension: 12h 21m 54.9s
Declination: +04° 28' 25"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 11:10 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 136
Total Exposure: m22.7 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
M61 looks to be a barred spiral galaxy with the arms showing a lot of unequal swirl (SBb). There's a big knot on top.
Messier number: M062
NGC/IC number: NGC 6266
Common name: Flickering Globular
Object type: Globular cluster
Constellation: Ophiuchus
Magnitude: 6.5
Size (arcminutes): 15'
Right ascension: 17h 01m 12.60s
Declination: -30° 06' 44.5"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 03:30 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 94
Total Exposure: 15.7 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
M62 is a globular cluster with a medium amount of central concentration. Shapley-Sawyer V.
Messier number: M063
NGC number: NGC 5055
Common name: Sunflower Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: CVn
Magnitude: 8.6
Size (arcminutes): 12.6' × 7.2'
Right ascension: 13h 15m 49.3s
Declination: +42 01' 45"
Image data
Date: 6/5/2024
Time: 11:21 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 106
Total exposure: 17.667 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
M63 is a spiral galaxy with a small, bright core and dim intermediately spiral arms. Hubble SAb
Messier number: M064
NGC number: NGC 4826
Common name: Black Eye Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: CBr
Magnitude: 8.5
Size (arcminutes): 10.7' × 5.1'
Right ascension: 12h 56m 43.7s
Declination: +21 40' 58"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 09:57 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 94
Total exposure: 15.67 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
It is called the Black Eye because of the large, dark lane above the bright core. It is a spiral galaxy (SAb)
Messier number: M065
NGC/IC number: NGC 3623
Common name: Leo Triplet
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Leo
Magnitude: 9.3
Size (arcminutes): 8.7' × 2.5'
Right ascension: 11h 18m 55.9s
Declination: +13° 05' 32"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 09:10 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 141
Total Exposure: 23.5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
A spiral galaxy with bright core and a bit of dark lane on the left side of the above image. Hubble SAb.
Messier number: M066
NGC/IC number: NGC 3627
Common name: Leo Triplet
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Leo
Magnitude: 8.9
Size (arcminutes): 9.1' × 4.2'
Right ascension: 11h 20m 15.0s
Declination: +12° 59' 30"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 09:10 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 141
Total Exposure: 23.5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
A loose, face on, barred spiral with a bright bar (SBb). There are lots of knots.
Messier number: M067
NGC number: NGC 2682
Common name: King Cobra or Golden Eye Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Cancer
Magnitude: 6.1
Size (arcminutes): 30'
Right ascension: 08h 51.3m
Declination: +11 49'
Image data
Date: 3/9/2025
Time: 08:21 PM CDT
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
An open cluster that stands out of the background. Trumpler II, 2, m
Messier number: M068
NGC/IC number: NGC 4590
Common name: –
Object type: Globular cluster
Constellation: Hydra
Magnitude: 7.8
Size (arcminutes): 11'
Right ascension: 12h 39m 27.98s
Declination: -26° 44' 38.6"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 12:30 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 128
Total Exposure: 21.3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
Considering that the image was done from a pretty dark location, it really isn't too sharp or bright . A small tight globular cluster with a Shapley-Sawyer of IV
Messier number: M069
NGC number: NGC 6637
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 7.6
Size (arcminutes): 10.8'
Right ascension: 18h 31m 23.10s
Declination: -32 20' 53.1"
Image data
Date: 10/19/2024
Time: 08:46 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
A small globular cluster along the bottom of the Teapot in Sgr. The core is bright and somewhat compact. Shapey-Sawyer IV
Messier number: M070
NGC number: NGC 6681
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 7.9
Size (arcminutes): 8'
Right ascension: 18h 43m 12.76s
Declination: -32 17' 31.6"
Image data
Date: 10/19/2024
Time: 09:10 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
The third and last of the globular clusters along the bottom edge of the Teapot in Sgr. Considering this was taken only a few minutes after M69 above, it is kind of disappointing. Looking back at the original fits it is a Shapley Sawyer IV.
Messier number: M071
NGC number: NGC 6838
Common name: Angelfish Cluster
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sge
Magnitude: 8.2
Size (arcminutes): 7.2'
Right ascension: 19h 53m 46.49s
Declination: +18 46' 45.1"
Image data
Date: 6/7/2024
Time: 12:58 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 23
Total exposure: 3.83 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
From the image, M71 could easily pass as an open cluster. The center has almost no central concentration so Shapley-Sawyer XI or XII.
Messier number: M072
NGC number: NGC 6981
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Aqr
Magnitude: 9.3
Size (arcminutes): 6.6'
Right ascension: 20h 53m 27.70s
Declination: -12 32' 14.3"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 11:10 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR CUT
There are some bloated, oblong stars in the image that show poor tracking in the five minute exposure. There is loose scattering of stars rather than a densely packed core so Shapley-Sawyer VIII.
Messier number: M073
NGC number: NGC 6994
Common name: –
Object type: Asterism
Constellation: Aqr
Magnitude: 9.0
Size (arcminutes): 2.8'
Right ascension: 20h 58m 54s
Declination: -12 38'
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 11:30 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 6
Total exposure: 1 minute
Filter(s): IR CUT
Another one of Messier's goofs. Looks like my old DU fraternity pledge pin's triangle.
Messier number: M74
NGC number: NGC 628
Common name: Phantom Galaxy[91]
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Pisces
Magnitude: 9.4
Size (arcminutes): 10.5' x 9.5'
Right ascension: 01h 36m 41.8s
Declination: +15 47' 01"
Image data
Date: 10/5/2024
Time: 10:53 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 181
Total exposure: 30.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
This is a really nice face on Spiral galaxy (Sc) with a well developed arms and a bright central core.
Messier number: M075
NGC number: NGC 6864
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Sgr
Magnitude: 8.5
Size (arcminutes): 6.8'
Right ascension: 20h 06m 04.75s
Declination: -21 55' 16.2"
Image data
Date: 9/1/2024
Time: 10:58 PM CDT
Location: Chesterfield Mall
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR CUT
M75 has a really concentrated central core, possibly the most concentrated of the Messier objects. Shapley=Sawyer I or II.
Messier number: M76
NGC number: NGC 650, NGC 651
Common name: Little Dumbbell Nebula
Object type: Planetary nebula
Constellation: Perseus
Magnitude: 10.1
Size (arcminutes): 2.7' × 1.8'
Right ascension: 01h 42.4m
Declination: +51 34' 31"
Image data
Date: 10/5/2024
Time: 09:46 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 180
Total exposure: 30 minutes
Filter(s): LP, IR Cut
This is the smallest of the four planetary nebula in Messier's list. It has a brighter central area and wispy outer features. I wouldn't be surprised if rotated 90 degrees towards the viewer it would show up looking a bit like the Ring Nebula.
Messier number: M077
NGC number: NGC 1068
Common name: Cetus A or Squid Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Cetus
Magnitude: 8.9
Size (arcminutes): 7.1' × 6.0'
Right ascension: 02h 42m 40.7s
Declination: -00 00' 48"
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 07:25 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 55
Total exposure: 9.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
The core of M77 looks oblong, running up/down in the image. That suggests it is a barred spiral. The outer reaches are not spread out, so SBa.
Messier number: M078
NGC number: NGC 2068
Common name: –
Object type: Diffuse nebula
Constellation: Orion
Magnitude: 8.3
Size (arcminutes): 8' × 6'
Right ascension: 05h 46m 46.7s
Declination: +00 00' 50"
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 09:18 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
This is the only fully reflection nebula in the Messier List. The image show it well even in the unzoomed image. It is normally a difficult target to see, even at a dark site. Considering the image was done in bright Chesterfield and only 5 minutes, this is impressive.
Messier number: M079
NGC/IC number: NGC 1904
Common name: –
Object type: Globular cluster
Constellation: Lepus
Magnitude: 7.7
Size (arcminutes): 8.7'
Right ascension: 05h 24m 10.59s
Declination: -24° 31' 27.3"
Image data
Date: 02/27/2025
Time: 07:57 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 18
Total Exposure: 3.0 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Sharp stars in the zoomed image and a fairly concentrated core. Shapley-Sawyer IV
Description:
Messier number: M080
NGC/IC number: NGC 6093
Common name: –
Object type: Globular cluster
Constellation: Scorpius
Magnitude: 7.3
Size (arcminutes): 10'
Right ascension: 16h 17m 02.41s
Declination: -22° 58' 33.9"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 02:50 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 88
Total Exposure: 14.7 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
As with M79 above, the stars are sharp and the core is concentrated, possibly a bit more than M79. It shows up brighter than M79 in the unzoomed image. Shapley-Sawyer III
Messier number: M081
NGC number: NGC 3031
Common name: Bode's Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: UMa
Magnitude: 6.9
Size (arcminutes): 26.9' × 14.1'
Right ascension: 09h 55m 33.2s
Declination: +69 03' 55"
Image data
Date: 6/2/2024
Time: 09:35 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 166
Total exposure: 27.667 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M81 is always one of the nicer spiral galaxies to view. It has a bright core with arms that dimly spiral out from the center. There's a notion of dark limbs. It is a Hubble SAa face on galaxy.
Messier number: M082
NGC number: NGC 3034
Common name: Cigar Galaxy
Object type: Starburst galaxy
Constellation: UMa
Magnitude: 8.4
Size (arcminutes): 11.2' × 4.3'
Right ascension: 09h 55m 52.2s
Declination: +69 40' 47"
Image data
Date: 6/2/2024
Time: 09:35 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 28
Total exposure: 4.667 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M82 is an edge on irregular galaxy with a big dark lane across the center.
Messier number: M083
NGC/IC number: NGC 5236
Common name: Southern Pinwheel Galaxy
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Hydra
Magnitude: 7.6
Size (arcminutes): 12.9' × 11.5'
Right ascension: 13h 37m 00.9s
Declination: -29° 51' 57"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 01:00 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 105
Total Exposure: 17.5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
A huge SBc barred spiral galaxy with a bright central core.
Messier number: M084
NGC/IC number: NGC 4374
Common name: –
Object type: Lenticular galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 9.1
Size (arcminutes): 6.5' × 5.6'
Right ascension: 12h 25m 03.7s
Declination: +12° 53' 13"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 08:40 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 135
Total Exposure: 22.5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
From the image M84 looks more like an E1 elliptical galaxy than a lenticular one. I see a bit of bright core, with a slightly out of round shape.
Messier number: M085
NGC/IC number: NGC 4382
Common name: –
Object type: Lenticular galaxy
Constellation: Coma Berenices
Magnitude: 9.1
Size (arcminutes): 7.1' × 5.5'
Right ascension: 12h 25m 24.0s
Declination: +18° 11' 28"
Image data
Date: 04/17/2025
Time: 01:00 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 57
Total Exposure: 9.5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
I see where M85 is said to be a cross between an elliptical galaxy (E1) and a lenticular galaxy (S0). Not really enough resolution to tell.
Messier number: M086
NGC number: NGC 4406
Common name: –
Object type: Lenticular galaxy
Constellation: Vir
Magnitude: 8.9
Size (arcminutes): 8.9' × 5.8'
Right ascension: 12h 26m 11.7s
Declination: +12 56' 46"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 11:09 PM CST
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 60
Total exposure: 10 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
An S0 lenticular galaxy.
Messier number: M087
NGC/IC number: NGC 4486
Common name: Virgo A or Smoking Gun Galaxy
Object type: Elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 8.6
Size (arcminutes): 7.2' × 6.8'
Right ascension: 12h 30m 49.42338s
Declination: +12° 23' 28.0439"
Image data
Date: 04/17/2025
Time: 09:00 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 121
Total Exposure: 20.2 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
A huge, almost completely spherical elliptical galaxy (E0).
Messier number: M088
NGC/IC number: NGC 4501
Common name: –
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Coma Berenices
Magnitude: 9.6
Size (arcminutes): 6.9' × 3.7'
Right ascension: 12h 31m 59.2s
Declination: +14° 25' 14"
Image data
Date: 04/17/2025
Time: 09:30 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 140
Total Exposure: 23.3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
A barred spiral galaxy with a bright central core, noticeable dark gaps between the core and arms. A gentle curve of the arms so Hubble SBc
Messier number: M089
NGC/IC number: NGC 4552
Common name: –
Object type: Elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 9.8
Size (arcminutes): 5.1' × 4.7'
Right ascension: 12h 35m 39.8s
Declination: +12° 33' 23"
Image data
Date: 04/17/2025
Time: 10:30 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 140
Total Exposure: 23.3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
An almost spherical elliptical galaxy (E0).
Messier number: M090
NGC/IC number: NGC 4569
Common name: –
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 9.5
Size (arcminutes): 9.5' × 4.4'
Right ascension: 12h 36m 49.8s
Declination: +13° 09' 46"
Image data
Date: 04/17/2025
Time: 11:30 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 137
Total Exposure: 22.8 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
This looks like a barred spiral galaxy (SBa). There are some dark lanes between the core and arms on the right side.
Messier number: M091
NGC/IC number: NGC 4548
Common name: –
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Coma Berenices
Magnitude: 10.2
Size (arcminutes): 5.4' × 4.3'
Right ascension: 12h 35m 26.4s
Declination: +14° 29' 47"
Image data
Date: 04/17/2025
Time: 10:00 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 140
Total Exposure: 23.3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
This is a distinct barred spiral galaxy (SBb). The central core is bright.
Messier number: M092
NGC number: NGC 6341
Common name: –
Object type: GC
Constellation: Her
Magnitude: 6.4
Size (arcminutes): 14'
Right ascension: 17h 17m 07.39s
Declination: +43 08' 09.4"
Image data
Date: 6/5/2024
Time: 10:54 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 46
Total exposure: 7.667 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Based on the un-zoomed image M92 is pretty big. The core is bright and fairly well concentrated.
Messier number: M093
NGC number: NGC 2447
Common name: Critter Cluster
Object type: Open cluster
Constellation: Puppis
Magnitude: 6
Size (arcminutes): 10'
Right ascension: 07h 44.6m
Declination: -23 52'
Image data
Date: 2/27/2025
Time: 07:57 PM CST
Location: Sachs Library
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 36
Total exposure: 6 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
A fairly concentrated open cluster that easily separates from the background. It has a wide range of brightness of stars. Shapley-Sawyer I, 3, r.
Messier number: M094
NGC number: NGC 4736
Common name: Crocodile Eye or Cat's Eye Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: CVn
Magnitude: 8.2
Size (arcminutes): 11.2' × 9.1'
Right ascension: 12h 50m 53.1s
Declination: +41 07' 14"
Image data
Date: 6/9/2024
Time: 10:46 PM CDt
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 30
Total exposure: 5 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
Online and in the AL info it says M95 is barred spiral, but it is so small you just can't tell from the image. If I had to base my answer on the zoomed picture, I's say it is an almost spherical elliptical nebula (E0).
Messier number: M095
NGC/IC number: NGC 3351
Common name: –
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Leo
Magnitude: 9.7
Size (arcminutes): 3.1' × 2.9'
Right ascension: 10h 43m 57.7s
Declination: +11° 42' 14"
Image data
Date: 04/17/2025
Time: 12:10 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 125
Total Exposure: 20.8 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
Online and in the AL info it says M95 is barred spiral, but it is so small you just can't tell from the image. If I had to base my answer on the zoomed picture, I's say it is an almost spherical elliptical nebula (E0).
Messier number: M096
NGC/IC number: NGC 3368
Common name: –
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Leo
Magnitude: 9.2
Size (arcminutes): 7.6' × 5.2'
Right ascension: 10h 46m 45.7s
Declination: +11° 49' 12"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 08:25 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 66
Total Exposure: 11.0 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
M96 is a spiral galaxy with an oblong core (tipped back?) and faint arms. There is a bit of darkening between the core and the outer arms. Hubble classifiation SAb.
Messier number: M097
NGC number: NGC 3587
Common name: Owl Nebula
Object type: Planetary nebula
Constellation: UMa
Magnitude: 9.9
Size (arcminutes): 3.4' × 3.3'
Right ascension: 11h 14m 47.734s
Declination: +55 01' 08.50"
Image data
Date: 6/7/2024
Time: 10:52 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 76
Total exposure: 12.667 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
M97 is one of the four planetary nebula in the Messier catalog and my personal favorite. The PN is circular in the image and the two "eyes" show up well. It is a bit brighter in the lower left versus the right, where it fades out.
Messier number: M098
NGC/IC number: NGC 4192
Common name: –
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Coma Berenices
Magnitude: 10.1
Size (arcminutes): 9.8' × 2.8'
Right ascension: 12h 13m 48.292s
Declination: +14° 54' 01.69"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 09:40 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 133
Total Exposure: 22.2 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
An almost edge on spiral galaxy with a bright core and arms the show dark areas. Hubble classificaiton SAb
Messier number: M099
NGC/IC number: NGC 4254
Common name: St. Catherine’s Wheel
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Coma Berenices
Magnitude: 9.9
Size (arcminutes): 5.4' × 4.7'
Right ascension: 12h 18m 49.6s
Declination: +14° 24' 59"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 10:10 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 136
Total Exposure: 22.7 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
A face on, well developed spiral galaxy with impressive arms. The core is very bright and the three arms I can see have dark areas.
Messier number: M100
NGC/IC number: NGC 4321
Common name: Mirror Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Coma Berenices
Magnitude: 9.3
Size (arcminutes): 7.4' × 6.3'
Right ascension: 12h 22m 54.9s
Declination: +15° 49' 21"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 11:40 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 107
Total Exposure: 17.8 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
M100 is a pretty, face on spiral galaxy (SAc). It has a bright, well defined core and long delicate arms. NGC 4312 also shows up below M100 in the unzoomed image.
Messier number: M101
NGC number: NGC 5457
Common name: Pinwheel Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: UMa
Magnitude: 7.9
Size (arcminutes): 28.8' × 26.9'
Right ascension: 14h 03m 12.6s
Declination: +54 20' 57"
Image data
Date: 6/9/2024
Time: 11:03 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 128
Total exposure: 21.333 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
I'll admit it. I didn't keep up with the notes for each image as I captured data for the Messier objects. I enterend most of the notes after all the images were captured and post-processed. M101 turns out to be the final Messier done. I saved one of the best for last. M101 is a face on spiral galaxy (SAc) with a bright core and whispy armes showing many areas of concentration and dark areas. It is impressive.
Messier number: M102
NGC number: NGC 5866
Common name: Spindle Galaxy
Object type: Lenticular galaxy
Constellation: Dra
Magnitude: 9.9
Size (arcminutes): 4.7' x 1.9'
Right ascension: 15h 06m 29.5s
Declination: +55 45' 48"
Image data
Date: 6/9/2024
Time: 11:55 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 61
Total exposure: 10.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
This may or may not be another goof in the Messier catalog. Mechain, who discovered it, later thought that the actual Messier observation might have been a duplicate of M101. The above image is what is currently thought to be M102 (NGC 5866), an edge on lenticular galaxy (S0). Internet images show a dark line running the length of the galaxy, but no such line on my original try. Much later I noticed and reprocessed the data to get the above zoomed image that show the line.
Messier number: M103
NGC number: NGC 581
Common name: –
Object type: OC
Constellation: Cas
Magnitude: 7.4
Size (arcminutes): 6'
Right ascension: 01h 33.2m
Declination: +60 42'
Image data
Date: 6/10/2024
Time: 1:36 AM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 31
Total exposure: 5.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
M103 is a loose open cluster with not much central concentration. It has a wide range of stellar brightness and less than 50 stars. It does separate from the background stars. Trumpler III, 2, p.
Messier number: M104
NGC/IC number: NGC 4594
Common name: Sombrero Galaxy
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: Virgo
Magnitude: 8
Size (arcminutes): 9' x 4'
Right ascension: 12h 39m 59.4s
Declination: -11° 37' 23"
Image data
Date: 04/18/2025
Time: 01:30 AM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 138
Total Exposure: 23.0 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
M104 is always a favorite with the bright central buldge, dark surrounding dust lane. It is an edge on, spiral galaxy (SAa).
Messier number: M105
NGC/IC number: NGC 3379
Common name: –
Object type: Elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Leo
Magnitude: 9.3
Size (arcminutes): 5.4' × 4.8'
Right ascension: 10h 47m 49.6s
Declination: +12° 34' 54"
Image data
Date: 04/16/2025
Time: 10:40 PM EDT
Location: Re-Load CG
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 98
Total Exposure: 16.3 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, Moon and Sky Glow
This is an elliptical galaxy (E1) with a very dense center. Above and to the left is NGC 3384, another elliptical galaxy (E2). The unzoomed image also shows NGC 3389 to the left of NGC 3384. I'm surprised that Messier didn't see the two NGCs since they are of good size and fairly bright.
Messier number: M106
NGC number: NGC 4258
Common name: –
Object type: Spiral galaxy
Constellation: CVn
Magnitude: 8.4
Size (arcminutes): 18.6' × 7.2'
Right ascension: 12h 18m 57.5s
Declination: +47 18' 14"
Image data
Date: 6/5/2024
Time: 12:11 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 73
Total exposure: 12.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut/LP
A nice concentrated core for this bared spiral galaxy. I'd say SBa (I see where the accepted is SABbc--that's beyond my ability). NGC 4220 (a galaxy) is in the lower right corner of the zoomed image.
Messier number: M107
NGC number: NGC 6171
Common name: Crucifix Cluster
Object type: GC
Constellation: Oph
Magnitude: 7.9
Size (arcminutes): 10'
Right ascension: 16h 32m 31.86s
Declination: -13 03' 13.6"
Image data
Date: 6/12/2024
Time: 10:55 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 32
Total exposure: 5.333 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
This is a very loose globular cluster with a center that isn't very concentrated. I'd say a Shapley-Sawyer XI.
Messier number: M108
NGC number: NGC 3556
Common name: Surfboard Galaxy
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: UMa
Magnitude: 10.0
Size (arcminutes): 8.7' × 2.2'
Right ascension: 11h 11m 31.0s
Declination: +55 40' 27"
Image data
Date: 6/2/2024
Time: 09:56 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 133
Total exposure: 22.167 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut
I'd say an irregular galaxy, but online it is called a Bared Spiral SBbc. I guess it could be SBc. It reminds me of M82, the Cigar. There's a string of five stars below and to the right.
Messier number: M109
NGC number: NGC 3992
Common name: Vacuum Cleaner Galaxy
Object type: Barred Spiral galaxy
Constellation: UMa
Magnitude: 9.8
Size (arcminutes): 7.6' × 4.7'
Right ascension: 11h 57m 36.0s
Declination: +53 22' 28"
Image data
Date: 6/9/2024
Time: 09:45 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: SeeStar S50
# frames: 270
Total exposure: 45 minutes
Filter(s): IR Cut, LP
A nice bared spiral with the stars in the enlarged field showing some interesting curves. I'd say SBb.
Messier number: M110
NGC number: NGC 205
Common name: Andromeda Satellite #2
Object type: Dwarf elliptical galaxy
Constellation: Andromeda
Magnitude: 8.5
Size (arcminutes): 21.9' × 11.0'
Right ascension: 00h 40m 22.1s
Declination: +41 41′ 7″
Image data
Date: 10/2/2024
Time: 07:58 PM CDT
Location: Home
Scope: Dwarf II
# frames: 247
Total exposure: 41.167 minutes
Filter(s): Moon and Sky Glow
This is the same image as used for M31 and M32 above, just recentered to show the tiny dwarf elliptical satellite galaxy M110. It is tiny so not much detail.
Observing Locations:
Nights 1 through 4 - June 1-9 The front stoop of the porch of my house. I revolved between sitting on the step outside and sitting in the living room. The front of the house is 135 degrees from north. The trees in back limit the view of the SE-W sky.
Night 5 - June 12 I needed to see more of the sky, so I set up between the front sidewalk and street and sat in the car.
Night 6 - June 30 - I set up in the campground at the Green Bank Radio Observatory in West Virginia as part of the yearly Green Bank StarQuest.
Night 7 - September 1 - I set up in the parking lot of the abandoned and soon to be torn down Chesterfield Mall at the corner of I-64 and Chesterfield Parkway.
Night 8 - October 2 - I set up out front of the house with the Dwarf II for M31 and neighbors.
Night 9 - October 5 - I set up out front of the house with the SeeStar S50.
Night 10 - October 19 - I set up in the parking lot of the abandoned and soon to be torn down Chesterfield Mall at the corner of I-64 and Chesterfield Parkway. Around 9:30 p.m. I was asked to leave by a security guard. The mall area was officially closed for destruction.
Nights 11 - 13 - Feb. 27 to March 12, 2025 - Since the Mall location no longer worked, I'd searched around the area and decided to use the parking lot at Sachs Library. The Library is on the other side of Chesterfield Parkway from the Mall, about 400 yards away from my prior spot.
Nights 14 & 15 - April 16-18, 2025 - Over my grandson's spring break my son, grandson, and I met near the Red River Gorge in Kentucky. We stayed in the Re-Load Campground outside of Beattyville, KY. The sky was dark, but six dusk to dawn lights were bright enough so you could read print on paper. Imaging was good.
Night 16 - 04/22/2025 09:00 PM CDT - Home. After collecting images of various Caldwell objects, I grabbed M49. I only need Messier 30 to swing around into the early morning sky to finish off the target list.
Night 17-07/24/2025 01:33 AM CDT - Danville Conservation Area (the "local" dark sky spot). I was out at the local dark sky site where I generally spend the entire night and slept in my minivan. I got up at 1:30 AM and did a M30 goto.
The yellow star on the DarkSky Finder map is Home.
The blue star on the DarkSky Finder map was the first Mall location. The picture below shows the local light pollution. It is similar at the other two locations mentioned below.
My original Mall location was #1 in the above picture. I later moved to #2 for a better view to the south and west. On October 19th I was asked to leave by security and then moved to the Sachs Library Lot at #3.
Beattyville, KY in relation to Lexington, KY. The entire area from the Red River Gorge to Beattyville is world renown for rock climbing.
Dark sky map for Re-Load Campground.