The Dark Side Observatory

Photo Release in 2023

RELEASE DATE: 30 December 2023

Movement of Jupiter’s Moons - December 21, 2023

I decided to spend some time on a wide-field view of the planet Jupiter and try to capture the movement of the Galilean Moons. In this 39-second video, you can watch the moon Io disappear behind Jupiter on one side, and Europa appear from Jupter’s shadow on the other side. This is about 5 hours compressed to 39 seconds.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at -10F, 3 second exposures with 120 second delays over a period of 5 hours, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in PixInisght. Image Date: December 21, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 27 December 2023

Star Trails - December 14-15, 2023

Star trails captured on the night of December 14th and 15th, 2023 while looking for Geminid meteors.
Tech Specs: Canon 6D Camera, Samyang 14mm Lens (f/2.8), tripod mounted, unguided, stacked using StarStax v0.71, about 4 hours of 45-second exposures. Image Date: December 14-15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 22 December 2023

NGC 6712 - Globular Cluster in Scutum

NGC 6712 is a Class IX globular cluster in the constellation Scutum. The cluster appears to be about 12 billion years old and may have originally been significantly more massive having undergone significant mass loss due to passes through the galactic disc.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IXConstellation: ScutumRight ascension: 18h 53m 04.32sDeclination: –08° 42′ 21.5″Distance: 26.4 klyApparent magnitude (V): +8.69Apparent dimensions (V): 7.2'
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 54x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - December 23, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 19 December 2023

IC 349 - Barnard's Merope Nebula

This is an image of the elusive nebula IC349, also known as Barnard's Merope Nebula. It is located near the star Merope in the Pleiades Cluster, the Seven Sisters, and is probably being slowly destroyed by that star.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 80 x 60 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: November 5, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 16 December 2023

Geminid Meteor Shower 2023 - Weatherly, PA

Snagged this beauty early in the morning on December 16, 2023 while testing a ZWO ASI071MC and Samyang Lens. You can still capture some Geminid meteors before and after the peak dates.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI071MC Camera (not cooled), Samyang Lens f/2.8, 45-second exposure, tripod mounted, unguided, using AllSkEye software. Image Date: December 16, 2023 (02:10 AM Local Time). Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 15 December 2023

Geminid Meteor Shower 2023 - Weatherly, PA

Had a few nice and bright meteors during this year's Geminid Meteor Shower - I hope you did as well! Here is one of the brighter ones captured with a 30-second exposure.
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Samyang Lens (f/2.8), 30-second exposure, tripod mounted, unguided, post processed. Image Date: December 14, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 14 December 2023

Supernova 2023wrk in NGC 3690

This is NGC 3690, also cataloged as Arp 299, it is a pair of colliding galaxies approximately 134 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major. Since 1992, thirteen supernovae have been detected in Arp 299. In this image 70 x 60 second frames were stacked to help determine the magnitude of this most recent supernova, which is estimated to be magnitude 15.0.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at -10F, 70 x 60 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS, PixInisght, and Tycho software packaged. Image Date: December 12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
SECOND IMAGE

RELEASE DATE: 12 December 2023

Geminid Meteor Shower

The Geminid Meteor Shower peaks tonight and tomorrow night, December 13-14, 2023. The yellow circle on this photograph shows the radiant point, the point which the meteors will appear to be coming from, near the bright star Castor in the constellation Gemini. The graphic shows the skies at 40-degrees North latitude at 11:00 PM local time. Photo taken on December 12, 2023 from my backyard in Weatherly, PA, Carbon County.

RELEASE DATE: 10 December 2023

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks Observation Observation

This is Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks as it appeared on December 8, 2023 as it was moving past the star Vega in the constellation of Lyra in the Northern Hemisphere.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at -10F, 60 x 60 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Tycho Tracker and DSS/PixInisght software. Image Date: December 8, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 9 December 2023

Occultation of Betelgeuse by Asteroid 319 Leona

On December 11, 2023 a rare event will occur, an asteroid will pass in front of the star Betelgeuse. Although this event will not be visible in most of the United States, I took the opportunity to image this asteroid last evening. The bright object on the top is the red giant star named Beteleguese, found in the constellation Orion. If you look closely at the bottom of the image (circle in red) you will see a small streak. That streak is the asteroid 319 Leona and its movement over a one-hour period. It will continue its movement toward Betelgeuse over the next three days. You can read more about this event at Sky and Telescope (https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-news/asteroid-will-cover-betelgeuse-may-reveal-its-visible-surface/)
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at -10F, 60 x 60 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Tycho Tracker software. Image Date: December 8, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Published on Universe Today

RELEASE DATE: 7 December 2023

The Wizard Nebula - NGC 7380 in Cepheus

Here is an image of the open star cluster NGC 7380, also known as the Wizard Nebula. NGC 7380 is located in the constellation Cepheus about 7,000 light-years from Earth within the Milky Way Galaxy. The star cluster is embedded in a nebula, which spans some 110 light-years. The stars of NGC 7380 have emerged from this star-forming region in the last 5 million years or so, making it a relatively young cluster.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, 5 hours and 50 minutes using 5-minute exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 22, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - December 7, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 3 December 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 2 (M2 or NGC 7089)

Messier 2 or M2 (also designated NGC 7089) is a globular cluster in the constellation Aquarius. M2 is about 55,000 light-years distant from Earth. At 175 light-years in diameter, it is one of the larger globular clusters known. The cluster is rich, compact, and significantly elliptical. It is 12.5 billion years old and one of the older globular clusters associated with the Milky Way galaxy.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IIConstellation: AquariusRight ascension: 21h 33m 27.02sDeclination: –00° 49′ 23.7″Distance: 55,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 6.5Apparent dimensions (V): 16.0′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 33x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 30 November 2023

The Western Veil Nebula - NGC 6960 - The Witch’s Broom

The Veil Nebula is a cloud of heated and ionized gas and dust in the constellation Cygnus. It constitutes the visible portions of the Cygnus Loop, a large but relatively faint supernova remnant. The source supernova was a star 20 times more massive than the Sun which exploded between 10,000 and 20,000 years ago. At the time of explosion, the supernova would have appeared brighter than Venus in the sky, and visible in daytime. The remnants have since expanded to cover an area roughly 3 degrees in diameter (about 6 times the diameter, or 36 times the area, of the full Moon). This is the Western Veil (also known as Caldwell 34, NGC 6960 and the Witch’s Broom) and includes the star 52 Cygni that appears to be riding on top of the broom.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, 26 x 300 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 20, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 26 November 2023

The Eastern Veil Nebula - NGC 6992 and 6995

The Veil Nebula is a cloud of heated and ionized gas and dust in the constellation Cygnus. It constitutes the visible portions of the Cygnus Loop, a large but relatively faint supernova remnant. The source supernova was a star 20 times more massive than the Sun which exploded between 10,000 and 20,000 years ago. At the time of explosion, the supernova would have appeared brighter than Venus in the sky, and visible in daytime. The remnants have since expanded to cover an area roughly 3 degrees in diameter (about 6 times the diameter, or 36 times the area, of the full Moon). This is the Eastern Veil (also known as Caldwell 33), whose brightest area is NGC 6992, trailing off farther south into NGC 6995. Really happy how the Optolong L-eXtreme brought out more details in this nebula.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, 25 x 300 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 20, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 23 November 2023

Open Cluster NGC 457 - The Owl Cluster

This is the Owl Cluster in Cassiopeia, also known as NGC 457. The Owl Cluster is about 7,900 light-years away. The two bright stars inside this cluster are magnitude 5 Phi-1 Cassiopeia and magnitude 7 Phi-2 Cassiopeia.
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Right ascension: 01h 19m 32.6sDeclination: +58° 17′ 27″Distance: 7.922 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.4Apparent dimensions (V): 13.0′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 54x60 second, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 10, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 20 November 2023

The Triangulum Galaxy - Messier 33 (NGC 598)

From Wikipedia: The Triangulum Galaxy is a spiral galaxy approximately 3 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Triangulum. It is cataloged as Messier 33 or NGC 598. The Triangulum Galaxy is the third-largest member of the Local Group of galaxies, which includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy and about 44 other smaller galaxies. It is one of the most distant permanent objects that can be viewed with the naked eye.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: TriangulumRight ascension: 01h 33m 50.02sDeclination: +30° 39′ 36.7″Distance (comoving): 970 kpc (3.2 Mly)Apparent magnitude (V): 5.72
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 95x60 second, 11x300 seconds Optolong l-eXtreme filter, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 10, 2023 and August 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - November 20, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 17 November 2023

Open Cluster Messier 103 (M103)

From Wikipedia: Messier 103 (also known as M103, or NGC 581) is an open cluster where a few hundred, mainly very faint, stars figure in Cassiopeia. It was discovered in 1781 by Charles Messier's friend and collaborator Pierre Méchain. It is located between 8,000 to 9,500 light-years from the Solar System and ranging over about 15 light years. It holds about 40 certain-member stars, two of which have magnitudes 10.5, and a 10.8 red giant, which is the brightest within the cluster.
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Right ascension: 01h 33.2mDeclination: +60° 42′Distance: 9 thousand light-yearsApparent magnitude (V): 7.4Apparent dimensions (V): 6.0'
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 54x60 second, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 10, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 15 November 2023

Asteroid 10286 Shnollia (1982 SM6) Observation

This is an 80-minute stacked exposure showing the Main-belt Asteroid 10286 Shnollia moving near the outer edges of the open cluster Messier 36 in the constellation Auriga on 14 Nov 2023. This asteroid is roughly 2.6 miles (4.156 km) in diameter and around magnitude 17.5.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 80 x 60 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: November 14, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 13 November 2023

Asteroid 2002 XY60 Moving Through The Pleiades Cluster

This is an 80-minute time lapse showing the Main-belt Asteroid 2002XY60 moving through the Pleiades Cluster and the star Merope. 2002XY60 is roughly 2.5 miles in diameter and around magnitude 18.8.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 80 x 60 seconds, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: November 5, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 11 November 2023

Planetary Nebula SH2-200 - The Bear Claw Nebula

Here is a view of an ancient planetary nebula in the constellation Cassiopeia and known by several names including Sharpless 2-200 and The Bear Claw Nebula. It was discovered in the early 1980’s by examining the 1960’s Palomar Observatory Sky Survey. You can read more about the discovery in an article titled “A newly discovered nearby planetary nebula of old age” by Authors: Weinberger, R., Dengel, J., Hartl, H., & Sabbadin, F.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 5 hours and 45 minutes using 5-minute exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: September 20, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 7 November 2023

Globular Cluster IC1276 (Palomar 7) in the Constellation Serpens

IC 1276 (also known as Palomar 7) is a globular star cluster in the constellation Serpens. Because of its position inside the Milky Way and its distance of 17,600 light-years the dust of the Milky Way reddens the color of this globular cluster.
RA: 18:10:44.20Dec: -07:12:27.4Distance from Sun: 17.6 klyApparent Diameter: 21.0 arc minBrightness: 10.34 mag vis
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 75x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 10, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 4 November 2023

Planetary Nebula IC1295 in Scutum

IC 1295 is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Scutum. IC 1295 is a small, green nebula with a low magnitude of 12.7. It is made up of multiple envelopes of gas surrounding a low luminosity star (white dwarf) at the end of its life.
Observation data: J2000 epochRight ascension: 18h 54m 37.206sDeclination: −08° 49′ 39.08″Distance: 4700 lyApparent magnitude (V): 12.7Apparent dimensions (V): 1.7 × 1.4 arcminConstellation: Scutum
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 54x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 November 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 15 (M15 or NGC 7078)

Messier 15 (M15 or NGC 7078) is a bright globular cluster located in the constellation Pegasus. The age of this cluster is estimated to be 12 billion years, ranking it as one of the oldest known globular clusters.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IVConstellation: PegasusRight ascension: 21h 29m 58.33sDeclination: +12° 10′ 01.2″Distance: 35.69 ± 0.43 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.2Apparent dimensions (V): 18′.0
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 29 October 2023

The Pacman Nebula - NGC 281/Sh2-184

NGC 281 is also known as the Pacman Nebula for its resemblance to the video game character and in the Sharpless Catalog, Sh2-184. In this session I added an additional 2-hours of data bringing my total on this image to 6 hours 40 minutes.
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 00h 52m 59.3sDeclination: +56° 37′ 19″Distance: 9500 lyApparent dimensions (V): 35′Constellation: Cassiopeia
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, Optolong L-eXtreme 2" filter, 6 hours and 40 minutes using 5-minute exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 2022 and September 20, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 25 October 2023

The Moon - October 24, 2023

Here is a view of last night's moon, 81% illuminated and currently residing in the constellation Aquarius.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, best 20% of 500 frames, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, captured using SharpCap Pro v4. Image Date: October 24, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 22 October 2023

The Elephant Trunk Nebula in Cepheus

This is the Elephant Trunk Nebula, a small area inside the larger nebula IC 1396 in the constellation Cepheus. The Elephant Trunk Nebula is about 2,400 light years from Earth and stretches for over 20 light years. This area is also a star forming region containing over 250 young stars both in it, and around it.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, 4 hours using 5-minute exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: September 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - OCTOBER 22, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 19 October 2023

Nova AT2023uri in the Andromeda Galaxy

Here is a view of a new nova near the core of the Andromeda Galaxy (Messier 31) designated as AT2023uri. This supernova was discovered on October 11, 2023 by the Xingming Observatory Sky Survey (XOSS). My magnitude estimate for this observation was 16.2 using Tycho Tracker software.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, 1 hour using 5-minute exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: October 18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 16 October 2023

James Webb Space Telescope JWST Observation

This video is a 2.5 hour time-lapse showing the movement of the James Webb Space Telescope moving through the constellation Aries on October 12, 2023. Estimated magnitude during the observation was 16.3.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, 150 X 60 seconds at 0F. Processed in Tycho Tracker software. Image Date: October 12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 14 October 2023

Movement of Comet 103P/Hartley in Gemini

Here is a 60-minute video showing the movement of Comet 103P/Hartley in the constellation Gemini.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, 60 X 60 seconds at 0F. Processed using Tycho Tracker software. Image Date: October 12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 13 October 2023

Comet 103P/Hartley and the Eskimo Nebula

Here is a 60-minute stacked view showing the bluish-green glow of Comet 103P/Hartley in the upper left moving through the constellation Gemini and the planetary nebula, known as the Eskimo Nebula, on the center right (the large bluish streak).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, 60 X 60 seconds at 0F. Processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: October 12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
AAPOD2 Image of the Day - October 15, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 12 October 2023

Meteor Capture - October 12, 2023

Captured a nice meteor early this morning at 0300HRS. The stars in this image have been enhanced for clarity, there is also some glow reflecting up inside the plastic dome of the camera.
TECH SPECS: ASI462MC camera, AllSkEye Pro v0.9.25.4 software. Image Date: October 12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 10 October 2023

Messier 11 - The Wild Duck Cluster

Here is a view of the open cluster called the Wild Duck Cluster (Messier 11, M11, NGC 6705) in the constellation Scutum. One of the nicest open clusters in the Northern skies. It has a magnitude of 6.3 and contains an estimated 2900+ stars. The cluster lies between us and the Scutum galactic cloud. The dark areas in the image are actually obscured by dust and gas.
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Right ascension: 18h 51m 05.0sDeclination: −06° 16′ 12″Distance: 6,120 light-yearsApparent magnitude (V): 5.8Apparent dimensions (V): 22.8′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: July 23, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 5 October 2023

Globular Cluster NGC 6934 in Delphinus

NGC 6934 is a globular cluster of stars in the constellation Delphinus. It's located about 52,000 light-years from the Sun and is home to some of the most distant stars in the Milky Way galaxy.
NGC 6934 is located close to the celestial equator, so it's visible from both hemispheres at certain times of the year. Backyard scopes show a fuzzy disk of nebulosity, about 5 arc minutes in diameter with a brighter core. The cluster stars are estimated to be some 10 billion years old.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VIIIConstellation: DelphinusRight ascension: 20h 34m 11.37sDeclination: +07° 24′ 16.1″Distance: 52 klyApparent magnitude (V): 8.83Apparent dimensions (V): 1.20′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: July 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 3 October 2023

Observatory Time-Lapse

A time-lapse video from inside the observatory on October 1-2, 2023. Taken using an ASI462MC camera and ALLSKEYE software. Edited in Adobe Premiere to speed up the timeline.

RELEASE DATE: 2 October 2023

Globular Cluster NGC 7006 in Delphinus

NGC 7006 is a globular cluster in the constellation Delphinus. NGC 7006 is about 135,000 light-years away.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IConstellation: DelphinusRight ascension: 21h 1m 29.4sDeclination: +16° 11′ 14.4″Apparent magnitude (V): 10.6Apparent dimensions (V): 2.8′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: July 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 27 September 2023

Elliptical Galaxies Messier 84 (M84) and Messier 86 (M86)

Messier 84 or M84, also known as NGC 4374 is a member of a dynamic pairing with M86. A round giant elliptical galaxy some 80,000 light-years wide, M84 shines across 55 million light-years of space. It resides in the Virgo Cluster of galaxies, the nearest of the large extragalactic populations. M84 is visually part of Markarian’s Chain, a string of eight galaxies that form a 1.5°-long line that shines like flying paper lanterns at the core of the Virgo Cluster. Armenian astrophysicist Benjamin Markarian discovered this feature in the 1960s, noting that these galaxies share a common motion through space. However, later observations have shown that M84 is not a dynamical member of the chain, as its motion does not jive with the rest.
Messier 86 (also known as M86 or NGC 4406) is a 9th-magnitude elliptical/lenticular galaxy at the core of the Virgo Cluster, lying only 17′ from M84. Messier discovered it together with M84, saying the two “nebulae” had the same appearance. On the surface, they do. With its smooth-looking face, M86, like M84, gets gradually fainter the further you look away from the core. And at a glance, M86 may appear only slightly larger than M84 through a small telescope. But this is an illusion created by the galaxy’s lower surface brightness. M86 is, in fact, twice the apparent diameter of M84 and is slightly more elliptical. M86’s 400 billion stars span a whopping 135,000 light-years.
Reference: https://www.astronomy.com/astronomy-for-beginners/101-must-see-cosmic-objects-m84-and-m86/
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 26, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
ANNOTATED IMAGE

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - SEPTEMBER 28, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 22 September 2023

Open Cluster Messier 39 in Cygnus

Messier 39 or M39, also known as NGC 7092, is an open cluster of stars in the constellation of Cygnus. When observed in a small telescope at low power the cluster shows around two dozen members but is best observed with binoculars. It has a total integrated magnitude (brightness) of 5.5 and spans an angular diameter of 29 arcminutes – about the size of the full Moon. It is centered about 1,010 light-years away.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Right ascension: 21h 31m 48.0sDeclination: +48° 26′ 00″Distance: 1,010 lyApparent magnitude (V): 4.6Apparent dimensions (V): 29′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 83x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 26 andJune 17, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 19 September 2023

The Tadpole Galaxy - Arp 188

The Tadpole Galaxy, also known as UGC 10214 and Arp 188, is a disrupted barred spiral galaxy located 420 million light-years from Earth in the northern constellation Draco. Its most dramatic feature is a trail of stars about 280,000 light-years long. (Wikipedia) The Tadpole Galaxy is currently interacting with another galaxy and the tidal forces have created the 280,000 light-year tail.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: DracoRight ascension: 16h 06m 03.9sDeclination: +55° 25′ 32″Distance: 420 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 14.4Apparent size (V): 3.6′ × 0.8′
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 180 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: April 13, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 16 September 2023

Dark Nebula Barnard 174 (B174) in Cepheus

Barnard 174 is a very dense dark nebula which absorbs the light of the stars behind the nebula. This dark nebula is found in the constellation Cepheus. Infrared observations show many young stars in this region. So, B174 is an active star forming region. Almost 6 hours of imaging was needed to bring out this dark area.
The astronomer Edward Emerson Barnard compiled a list of dark nebulae known as the Barnard Catalog of Dark Markings in the Sky, or the Barnard Catalog for short. The nebulae listed by Barnard have become known as Barnard objects. A 1919 version of the catalog listed 182 nebulae; by the time of the posthumously published 1927 version, it listed 369.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 340x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: September 6, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 15 September 2023

ISS Pass over NE Pennsylvania

Video running at 8x normal speed.

RELEASE DATE: 12 September 2023

The Ring Nebula - Messier 57

M57 (NGC 6720) is probably one of the most recognizable Messier objects. It is a planetary nebula found in the constellation Lyra, referred to as the Ring Nebula, and lies about 2,300 light-years from Earth. M57 is the glowing remains of a sun-like star. The star expelled a vast envelope of ionized gas before becoming a white dwarf.
Observation data: J2000 epochRight ascension: 18h 53m 35.079sDeclination: +33° 01′ 45.03″Distance: 2300 lyApparent magnitude (V): 8.8Apparent dimensions (V): 230″ × 230″Constellation: Lyra
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 111 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: April 13, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 8 September 2023

Fireball over the mid-Atlantic States

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) explained in a release that on September 3 around 9:23 p.m., data indicated a meteor became visible 47 miles above Forest Hill in Maryland and flew northwest at 36,000 miles per hour, burning up 22 miles above Gnatstown, Pennsylvania.

Shown on several news outlets including WBRE and WETM.

RELEASE DATE: 8 September 2023

Dark Nebula Barnard 150 - Seahorse Nebula

Barnard 150 is a dark nebula, also known as the Seahorse Nebula, located in the constellation Cepheus. It is about 1,200 light years from Earth. The nebula is so thick that it absorbs all light from stars behind it, making it stand out against the background of the Milky Way.
The nebula is shaped like a seahorse and is visible in silhouette against a background of stars. It has three dense dust cores, which are star formation regions. These cores were cataloged by Lynds and named LDN 1082 A, B, and C. This is almost 6.5 hours of collected light.
Observation data: J2000 epochRight ascension: 20h 50m 40sDeclination: 60° 18′ 00″Distance: 1200 lyApparent dimensions (V): 1°Constellation: Cepheus
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 386x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: June 17/18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - SEPTEMBER 9, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 4 September 2023

Open Cluster NGC 6633 in Ophiuchus

NGC 6633 is a large bright open cluster in the constellation Ophiuchus. NGC 6633 is also known as the Tweedledum Cluster (paired with IC 4756 as Tweedledee), also as the Captain Hook Cluster. It is also designated Collinder 380 or Melotte 201. Nearly as large as the full moon, the cluster contains 38 known stars and shines with a total magnitude of 4.6; the brightest star is of mag 7.6. Its age has been estimated at 660 million years.
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Right ascension: 18h 27.7mDeclination: 6° 34′Apparent magnitude (V): 4.6Apparent dimensions (V): 27’
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 54x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: August 18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 2 September 2023

Asteroid 881 Athene Observation

881 Athene is a stony background asteroid from the central region of the asteroid belt. It was discovered on 22 July 1917, by astronomer Max Wolf at the Heidelberg-Königstuhl State Observatory in southwest Germany. The likely elongated S/L-type asteroid has a rotation period of 13.9 hours and measures approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) in diameter. It was named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom in Greek mythology.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 60x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Tycho Tracker. Image Date: August 31, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 September 2023

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks Observation - August 31, 2023

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks is a Halley-type comet with an orbital period of 71 years. It was discovered in July 1812 by French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons. In 1883, American astronomer William Brooks rediscovered the comet, which led to its combined name. The comet is currently in the constellation Draco.
It will be closest to Earth on June 2, 2024, at a distance of 1.55 AU. The comet is expected to brighten to about apparent magnitude 4.5. The comet's orbit is 0.18 AU from Earth's orbit at its closest point. Orbital simulations conducted by NASA JPL's CNEOS do not show any close approaches to Earth. The comet's nucleus is estimated to be around 30 km in diameter. It may be the parent body of the December κ-Draconids meteor shower.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 240x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed Tycho Tracker. Image Date: August 1-2, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 29 August 2023

The Fireworks Galaxy and an Open Cluster

NGC 6946, sometimes referred to as the Fireworks Galaxy, is a face-on intermediate spiral galaxy with a small bright nucleus, whose location in the sky straddles the boundary between the northern constellations of Cepheus and Cygnus. Its distance from Earth is about 25.2 million light-years. NGC 6939 is an open cluster and is located 4,000 light-years from our solar system. This is a two panel mosaic image, each panel was 81 minutes of exposure time.
NGC 6946 also appears in Arps Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies as ARP 29. It was placed in the “Peculiar Galaxy” category since it has one spiral arm that is larger than the others.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, two panel, each panel 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 26, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 25 August 2023

Messier 51 - The Whirlpool Galaxy

The Whirlpool Galaxy, Messier 51 (M51), or NGC 5194, is a spiral galaxy in the constellation Canes Venatici (just below the last star in the handle of the Big Dipper asterism). M51 is roughly 23 million light-years away from Earth.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Canes VenaticiRight ascension: 13h 29m 52.7sDeclination: +47° 11′ 43″Distance: 23 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 8.4
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 180 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: April 10, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 21 August 2023

Globular Cluster Palomar 5 in Serpens

Albert George Wilson in 1955. There is a process of disruption acting on this cluster because of the gravitation of the Milky Way – in fact there are many stars leaving this cluster in the form of a stellar stream. The stream has a mass of 5000 solar masses and is 30,000 light years long. The cluster is currently about 60.6 kly from the Galactic Center. (Ref: Wikipedia)
This globular cluster has recently been found to harbor over 100 black holes in its center. You can read about here: https://earthsky.org/space/astronomers-find-100-black-holes-in-palomar-5/
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: XIIConstellation: SerpensRight ascension: 15h 16m 05.3sDeclination: –00° 06′ 41″Apparent magnitude (V): +11.75
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 108x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 25, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - AUGUST 21, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 18 August 2023

Open Cluster NGC 6819 in Cygnus

This is the open cluster NGC 6819 located in the constellation Cygnus. It is about 7,200 light years away from Earth and has a visual magnitude of 7.3, thus you’ll need a small pair of binoculars to enjoy this jewel.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 54x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 15 August 2023

Open Cluster NGC 7419 with Red Giants

This is the open cluster designated NGC 7419 in the constellation Cepheus. This cluster is between 7,500 and 11,000 light years away. Its location is behind some dark nebulae which reddens the color of the stars. The cluster does contain no less than five red supergiant stars - moved up to my top ten list for open clusters!
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 126x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 25, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 13 August 2023

Five Hours of Star Trails

This is about five hours of star trails from August 11-12, 2023, a stacked image of about 250 x 60 second exposures.
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, tripod, Lensbaby Fisheye Lens, captured with BackyardEOS and stacked with StarStax. Image Date: August 11-12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 11 August 2023

Early Perseid Meteors

Captured a few Perseid meteors last night using a Wyze Cam Pan v3. Too dim for the camera to track, so you have to go through the captured video files looking for them.

RELEASE DATE: 7 August 2023

The Distant Globular Cluster NGC6229

NGC 6229 is a globular cluster located in the constellation Hercules. NGC 6229 is located about 100,000 light years away from Earth, almost 5 times farther than M13, and is located in the outer halo of our galaxy.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: HerculesRight ascension: 16h 46m 58.8sDeclination: +47° 31′ 40″Apparent magnitude (V): 9.4Apparent dimensions (V): 4.50'
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 81 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: March 20, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 4 August 2023

Abell 2151 - Hercules Galaxy Cluster

Abell 2151 is a large cluster of galaxies (also known as the Hercules Galaxy Cluster) and is located about 500 million light years away and covers an area of 6 million light years with about 200 galaxies. It is part of the Hercules Supercluster, which is part of an even larger extragalactic structure simply known as the Great Wall. Four groupings of galaxies are included in the Arp Atlas, the most for any galaxy cluster. These include Arp 71 (NGC 6045), Arp 122 (NGC 6040), Arp 172 (IC 1178/81) and Arp 272 (NGC 6050/IC 1179).
Observation data (Epoch J2000)Constellation(s): HerculesRight ascension: 16h 05m 15.0sDeclination: +17° 44′ 55″Brightest member: NGC 6041
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 108x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 August 2023

The Sun - July 31, 2023

A stacked view of yesterday’s sun showing quite a few sunspots. Imaged in white light (glass filter), best 20% of 500 images. Solar cycle 25 is the current solar cycle, the 25th since 1755, when extensive recording of solar sunspot activity began. The peak solar activity month is currently estimated to be July 2025.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, best 20% of 500 images, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, captured with SharpCap Pro and processed in Autostakkert. Image Date: July 31, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 31 July 2023

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks Observation

Here is a view of Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks taken last night before the clouds rolled in (again).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 51x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed Tycho Tracker. Image Date: July 30, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 30 July 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 71 (M71 or NGC 6838)

Messier 71 (M71 or NGC 6838) is a globular cluster in the small northern constellation Sagitta and is about 12,000 light years away from Earth. Up until the 1970’s this cluster was designated as a densely packed open cluster because of the loose central region, today it is designated as a loosely concentrated globular cluster with a young age of 9-10 billion years.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: X-XIConstellation: SagittaRight ascension: 19h 53m 46.49sDeclination: +18° 46′ 45.1″Apparent magnitude (V): 8.2Apparent dimensions (V): 7.2'
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 85x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - JULY 30, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 26 July 2023

Saturn and Six Moons

In the center of this image is an overexposed planet Saturn surrounded by six of the brighter moons including: Iapetus, Titan, Rhea, Dione, Enceladus and Hyperion.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 15x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: July 23, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 24 July 2023

Outburst of Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks

Here is a quick view of Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks taken last night between some high clouds. Just in the last several days, this comet has gone from a star-like appearance to brightening by five magnitudes and now sporting a coma in the shape of two horns.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 23x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed Tycho Tracker. Image Date: July 23, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Published in LIVE SCIENCE

RELEASE DATE: 22 July 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 14 (M14 or NGC 6402)

Messier 14 (M14 or NGC 6402) is a globular cluster in a rather empty area of the constellation Ophiuchus. It was discovered in 1764 by the French astronomer Charles Messier who described it as a “nebula without stars, not large, faint, and round”. M14 is approximately 29,000 light-years distant. You will definitely need binoculars or a small telescope to see this cluster.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VIIIConstellation: OphiuchusRight ascension: 17h 37m 36.15sDeclination: –03° 14′ 45.3″Distance: 30.3 klyApparent magnitude (V): 7.6Apparent dimensions (V): 11.0′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 19 July 2023

Interacting Galaxies Arp 307 (NGC2872 and NGC2874)

This is the galactic group Arp 307, consisting of interacting galaxies NGC 2872 and NGC 2874 in the constellation Leo.
The Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies is a catalog of peculiar galaxies produced by Halton Arp in 1966. A total of 338 galaxies are presented in the atlas, which was originally published in 1966 by the California Institute of Technology. The primary goal of the catalog was to present photographs of examples of the different kinds of peculiar structures found among galaxies.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: March 26, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 16 July 2023

The Dumbbell Nebula - Messier 27

The Dumbbell Nebula (Messier 27, M27 or NGC 6853) is a bright planetary nebula in the constellation Vulpecula. It is easily seen in binoculars and wide-field photographs. The central star is an extremely hot blueish subdwarf. The nebula was created by the dying star ejecting a shell of gas into space.
Observation data: J2000 epochRight ascension: 19h 59m 36.340sDeclination: +22° 43′ 16.09″Apparent magnitude (V): 7.4Apparent dimensions (V): 8.0′ × 5.6′Constellation: Vulpecula
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 58x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 12 July 2023

The Whale and the Pup Galaxies

Here is a view of the Whale and the Pup Galaxies (NGC 4631 and NGC 4627) found in the constellation Coma Berenices. This galaxy is roughly 22 million light years away from Earth.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 57 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: March 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 9 July 2023

Open Cluster Messier 48 in the Constellation Hydra

Messier 48 or M48, also known as NGC 2548, is an open cluster of stars in the equatorial constellation of Hydra. It sits near Hydra's westernmost limit with Monoceros, about 18° 34′ to the east and slightly south of Hydra's brightest star, Alphard. This grouping was discovered by Charles Messier in 1771, but there is no cluster precisely where Messier indicated; he made an error, as he did with M47. The value that he gave for the right ascension matches, however, his declination is off by five degrees. Robert Burnham states, “Generally triangular in outline, the cluster is dominated by a central chain-like grouping of ten or so 10th and 11th magnitude stars.”
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: HydraRight ascension: 08h 13m 43.0sDeclination: −05° 45′ 00″Distance: 2,500 ly (770 pc)Apparent magnitude (V): 5.8Apparent dimensions (V): 30′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 85 x 60 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 7 July 2023

Comet C/2020 R7 (ATLAS) Observation

This is Comet C/2020 R7 (ATLAS) observed on July 6, 2023 in the constellation Corona Borealis. Estimated magnitude at the time of my observation was 17.2.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 30x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS, PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: July 6, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 6 July 2023

Supernova 2023ixf in Galaxy Messier 101

Here is an updated view of supernova 2023ixf in the galaxy Messier 101 (The Pinwheel Galaxy in Ursa Major). Tycho Tracker estimated the magnitude of the supernova to be 12.6 at the time of my observation, dimming by almost one full magnitude since June 18th.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 30x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS, PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: July 6, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 5 July 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 53 (M53 or NGC 5024)

Messier 53 (also known as M53 or NGC 5024) is a globular cluster in the Coma Berenices constellation and is one of the more outlying globular clusters. It is roughly 60,000 light-years away from our solar system.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VConstellation: Coma BerenicesRight ascension: 13h 12m 55.25sDeclination: +18° 10′ 05.4″Distance: 58,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 7.6Apparent dimensions (V): 13’
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 135x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 3 July 2023

A View of Clavius Crater

Clavius is a large crater found on the southern side of the moon, it measures approximately 136 miles across. The crater was named after Christoph Klau (or Christophorus Clavius) a 16th century German mathematician and astronomer.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ASI462MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and PixInsight. Image Date: May 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - JULY 3, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 30 June 2023

Globular Cluster NGC 5466

NGC 5466 is a globular cluster that exhibits a low surface brightness and a less dense core compared to other globular clusters. Burnham lists this cluster at a magnitude of 9.0 and gives it a Class XII (in the Shapley–Sawyer Concentration Class, this is the lowest concentrated center of globular clusters).
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: XIIConstellation: BoötesRight ascension: 14h 05m 27.29sDeclination: +28° 32′ 04.0″Distance: 51.9 klyApparent magnitude (V): 10.5Apparent dimensions (V): 11’
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 85 x 60 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 27 June 2023

The Jellyfish Nebula - IC443 or Sh2-248 in the Constellation Gemini

The Jellyfish Nebula, also known by its official name IC 443 and in the Sharpless Catalog as Sh2-248, is the remnant of a supernova lying 5,000 light years from Earth in the constellation Gemini.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 88x300 seconds guided exposures, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, 2” Optolong L-eXtreme filter, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: February 19, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 23 June 2023

Spiral Galaxy Messier 88 in Coma Berenices

Messier 88 (also known as M88 or NGC 4501) is a spiral galaxy about 50 to 60 million light-years away from Earth in the constellation Coma Berenices. M88 is one of the fifteen Messier objects that belong to the nearby Virgo Cluster of galaxies. It is galaxy number 1401 in the Virgo Cluster Catalogue (VCC) of 2096 galaxies that are candidate members of the cluster (Wikipedia).
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Coma BerenicesRight ascension: 12h 31m 59.2sDeclination: +14° 25′ 14″Apparent magnitude (V): 9.6
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 80 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: March 20, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 20 June 2023

Supernova 2023gfo in Galaxy NGC 4995

Here is an updated view of supernova 2023gfo in the galaxy NGC 4995 in the constellation Virgo. Tycho Tracker estimated the magnitude of this supernova to be 15.7 at the time of my observation on June 19, 2023.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 30x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS, PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: June 19, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 18 June 2023

Supernova 2023ixf in Galaxy Messier 101

Finally some clear skies! Here is an updated view of supernova 2023ixf in the galaxy Messier 101 (The Pinwheel Galaxy in Ursa Major). Tycho Tracker estimated the magnitude of the supernova to be 11.7 at the time of my observation, my last session was May 25, 2023 when the estimated magnitude was 11.05.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 50x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS, PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: June 18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 15 June 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 92 (M92 or NGC 6341)

Globular Cluster Messier 92 (M92 or NGC 6341) is a bright, compact globular cluster located in the northern section of Hercules. I think Robert Burnham said it best, “This is a beautiful rich globular cluster which in almost any other constellation would be considered a major show object; in Hercules it has been somewhat overshadowed by the splendor of the fabulous M13.” (Burnham’s Celestial Handbook – Volume 2 – Robert Burnham Jr.).
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IVConstellation: HerculesRight ascension: 17h 17m 07.39sDeclination: +43° 08′ 09.4″[2]Distance: 27,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 6.4Apparent dimensions (V): 14' arc minutes
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 76x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 13, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 13 June 2023

Copernicus Crater - May 29, 2023

Copernicus – diameter is 96 km, named after the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. It typifies craters that formed during the Copernican period in that it has a prominent ray system. From Wikipedia: The Copernican Period in the lunar geologic timescale runs from approximately 1.1 billion years ago to the present day. The base of the Copernican period is defined by impact craters that possess bright optically immature ray systems.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ASI462MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and PixInsight. Image Date: May 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 12 June 2023

Spiral Galaxy Messier 99 (M99) in Coma Berenices

Messier 99 or M99 (NGC 4254) in the constellation Coma Berenices is a spiral galaxy approximately 56 million light-years away from Earth. Burnham states, “The spiral pattern is very well defined, although somewhat asymmetric, with an unusually far-extending arm on the west side….”
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Coma BerenicesRight ascension: 12h 18m 49.625sDeclination: +14° 24′ 59.36″Distance: 45.2 MlyGroup or cluster: Virgo ClusterApparent magnitude (V): 9.9
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: March 26, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 9 June 2023

Galaxy Messier 65 in Constellation Leo

Messier 65 (also known as NGC 3623) is an intermediate spiral galaxy about 35 million light-years away in the constellation Leo, within its highly equatorial southern half. It was discovered by Charles Messier in 1780. With M66 and NGC 3628, it forms the Leo Triplet, a small close group of galaxies (Wikipedia).
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: LeoRight ascension: 11h 18m 55.9sDeclination: +13° 05′ 32″Distance: 41–42 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 9.3
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 52 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: March 20, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 6 June 2023

Spiral Galaxy Messier 66 (M66) in Leo

Messier 66 or M66, also known as NGC 3627, is an intermediate spiral galaxy in the equatorial constellation of Leo. It was discovered by French astronomer Charles Messier on March 1, 1780, who described it as "very long and very faint". This galaxy is a member of a small group of galaxies that includes M65 and NGC 3628, known as the Leo Triplet, or the M66 Group.
Age: 13.26 billion yearsMagnitude: 8.9Radius: 47,500 light yearsStars: 200 billionCoordinates: RA 11h 20m 15s | Dec +12° 59′ 30″Constellation: Leo
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: March 26, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - JUNE 6, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 3 June 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 10 (M10 or NGC 6254)

Messier 10 (M10 or NGC 6254) is a globular cluster in the constellation Ophiuchus. It is approximately 15,000 light years away. From Wikipedia, “A globular cluster is a spherical collection of stars that orbits a galactic core as a satellite. Globular clusters are very tightly bound by gravity, which gives them their spherical shapes and relatively high stellar densities toward their centers.”
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VIIConstellation: OphiuchusRight ascension: 16h 57m 8.92sDeclination: −04° 05′ 58.07″Distance: 14.3 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.6Apparent dimensions (V): 20′.0
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 13, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 30 May 2023

The Moon - May 29, 2023

Last night’s 73% illuminated moon.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, best 20% of 1300 frames, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and Registax. Image Date: May 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 29 May 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 12 (M12 or NGC 6218)

Messier 12 (M12 or NGC 6218 in the New General Catalog) is a globular cluster in the constellation Ophiuchus. It is also referred to as the “Gumball Globular”. It was discovered in 1764 by the French astronomer Charles Messier who described it as a “nebula without stars”. M12 is approximately 15,700 light-years distant. You will definitely need binoculars or a small telescope to see this cluster. This cluster contains about 200,000 stars, the brightest of them are about 12th magnitude.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IXConstellation: OphiuchusRight ascension: 16h 47m 14.18sDeclination: –01° 56′ 54.7″Distance: 16.44 ± 0.16 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.7Apparent dimensions (V): 16′.0
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 90x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 11, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 26 May 2023

Supernova 2023ixf in Galaxy Messier 101

Here is a view of supernova 2023ixf in the galaxy Messier 101 (The Pinwheel Galaxy in Ursa Major). Tycho Tracker estimated the magnitude of this supernova to be 11.05 at the time of my observation, this is still showing a brightening of the SN.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 50x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS, PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: May 25, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 25 May 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 5 (M5 or NGC 5904)

Messier 5 (M5 or NGC 5904) is a bright globular cluster located in the constellation Serpens. M5 is one of the oldest globular clusters, as well as one of the brightest in our galaxy. Estimates to the number of stars vary from 100,000 to as many as 500,000.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VConstellation: SerpensRight ascension: 15h 18m 33.22sDeclination: +02° 04′ 51.7″Distance: 24.5 klyApparent magnitude (V): 5.6Apparent dimensions (V): 23′.0
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 60x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Supernova 2023ixf in Galaxy Messier 101

After a dismal evening of trying to image through a thick envelope of Canadian smoke over Pennsylvania, I managed to collect 4.5 hours of data on supernova 2023ixf in the galaxy Messier 101 (The Pinwheel Galaxy in Ursa Major). The resulting image looks more like 30-minutes of data under better seeing conditions. Tycho Tracker estimated the magnitude of this supernova to be 11.4 at the time of my observation.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 265x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS, PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: May 21, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Supernova 2023ixf in Galaxy Messier 101

RELEASE DATE: 20 May 2023

The Iris Nebula (NGC 7023) in Cepheus

The Iris Nebula (also known as NGC 7023 and Caldwell 4) is a bright reflection nebula in the constellation Cepheus. It is located about 1,300 light-years from Earth and is about six light-years across. The nebula is illuminated by a young star called SAO 19158. The Iris Nebula is named for its resemblance to an iris flower. The nebula's blue color is caused by the scattering of starlight by dust grains. The dust grains are very small, about 10 times smaller than dust particles on Earth. The nebula's red filaments are caused by the presence of carbon monoxide molecules.
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 21h 01m 35.60sDeclination: +68° 10′ 10.0"Distance: 1,300 lyApparent magnitude (V): 6.8Apparent dimensions (V): 18' x 18'Constellation: Cepheus
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at -10F, 216 x 60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: November 23, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - May 20, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 18 May 2023

Our Star in White Light - May 18, 2023

Here is our star showing some sunspots through an Orion glass solar filter (white light).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at ambient temperature, best 20% of 500 images, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and Registax. Image Date: May 18, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Supernova 2023ijd in Galaxy NGC 4568

Here is a view of supernova 2023ijd located in the galaxy NGC4568 (NGC4567 is the adjacent galaxy) in the constellation Virgo. Using Tycho Tracker, the estimated magnitude of the supernova was 15.8. These galaxies are in the process of colliding and merging with each other.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 81x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Tycho Tracker, DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4)

Supernova 2023ijd in Galaxy NGC 4568

Supernova 2023gfo in Galaxy NGC 4995

Here is a view of supernova 2023gfo located in the galaxy NGC 4995 in the constellation Virgo. Using Tycho Tracker, the estimated magnitude of the supernova was 15.03.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera running at 0F, 39x60 seconds guided exposures, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Tycho Tracker, DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: May 10, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Supernova 2023gfo in Galaxy NGC 4995

RELEASE DATE: 12 May 2023

ISS Pass Over - NE Pennsylvania - May 12, 2023

The International Space Station (ISS) pass over NE Pennsylvania this morning, May 12, 2023.
Tech Specs: Wyze outdoor camera, processed in Adobe Premiere. Video Date: May 12, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 11 May 2023

Large Solar Prominence - May 10, 2023

Large solar prominences viewed yesterday, Earth is shown as an approximate size comparison.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ASI462MC camera, Daystar Quark Chromosphere, ZWO 0.5x Reducer, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO UV/IR Filter (2”), focus with a ZWO EAF, captured with SharpCap Pro v4 and processed using Autostakkert and Registax. Image Date: May 10, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 10 May 2023

The Surfboard Galaxy Messier 108 (M108)

Messier 108 (M108 or NGC 3556), nicknamed the Surfboard Galaxy, is a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. The galaxy lies at an approximate distance of 45.9 million light years from Earth and has an apparent magnitude of 10.7. This image combines data collected in 2021 and 2023 for a total of 3 hours 19 minutes of light.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Ursa MajorRight ascension: 11h 11m 31.0sDeclination: +55° 40′ 27″Distance: 8.8 Mpc (28.7 Mly)Apparent magnitude (V): 10.0
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO ASIAir Pro, ZWO EAF. 196 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: November 5, 2021 and January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 7 May 2023

The Spindle Galaxy - Messier 102 (M102)

Messier 102 (M102), also known as the Spindle Galaxy, is an edge-on lenticular galaxy located in the northern constellation Draco. The Spindle Galaxy lies at a distance of 50 million light years from Earth and has an apparent magnitude of 10.7. It has the designation NGC 5866 in the New General Catalogue.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: March 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 4 May 2023

Open Cluster NGC 2169 - The 37 Cluster

NGC 2169 is a small open cluster found in the constellation Orion. It is about 3,600 light years away from Earth and is nicknamed "The 37 Cluster", can you see the 37 in the image? This is also referred to as an asterism.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 54 x 60 seconds with darks. Stacked in DSS and processed in PixInsight. Image Date: February 24, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 May 2023

Great Globular Cluster in Hercules - Messier 13

Messier 13 (M13 or NGC 6205) is also referred to as the Great Globular Cluster in Hercules, is one of the brightest and best known globular clusters in the northern skies. It shines at a magnitude of 5.8, is about 22,200 light years away and contains an estimated 300,000 stars.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VConstellation: HerculesRight ascension: 16h 41m 41.24sDeclination: +36° 27′ 35.5″Distance: 22.2 klyApparent magnitude (V): 5.8Apparent dimensions (V): 20 arcminutes
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 70 x 60 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 26 April 2023

Comet C/2023 E1 Observation

Here is a quick 43-minute observation of Comet C/2023 E1 (ATLAS) currently in the constellation Canes Venatici.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 43 x 60 seconds. Processed in Tycho Tracker. Image Date: April 25, 2023 (local). Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 25 April 2023

The Crescent Moon

Tonight’s crescent moon from Weatherly, PA. Three panel mosaic image.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, best 20% of the frames from a 60 second video. Processed in Autostakkert and Registax. Image Date: April 25, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 24 April 2023

The Beehive Cluster Messier 44 (NGC 2632)

Messier 44 (NGC 2632) – The Beehive Cluster (or also called the Praesepe) is an open cluster that lies in the constellation Cancer. M44 has a visual brightness of magnitude 3.7, so it is easily visible using a modest telescope and can easily be seen using binoculars (it is actually much nicer in a wide-field view). Distance is around 610 light years. Total number of stars in this cluster are in the range of 200 to 350.
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Constellation: CancerRight ascension: 08h 40.4mDeclination: 19° 59′Distance: 610 lyApparent magnitude (V): 3.7Apparent dimensions (V): 95′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: November 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 21 April 2023

Globular Cluster Messier 3 (M3)

Messier 3 (also known as M3 or NGC 5272) is a globular cluster found in the northern constellation of Canes Venatici. M3 is one of the three brightest globular clusters in the Northern hemisphere (along with M13 and M5). This cluster is made up of around 500,000 stars. It is estimated to be 11.4 billion years old. It is located at a distance of about 33,900 light-years away from Earth.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VIConstellation: Canes VenaticiRight ascension: 13h 42m 11.62sDeclination: +28° 22′ 38.2″Distance: 33.9 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.39Apparent dimensions (V): 18′.0
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 90 x 60 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 18 April 2023

Open Cluster Messier 67 (NGC 2682)

Messier 67 (also known as M67 or NGC 2682) is an open cluster in the constellation of Cancer. It has the nickname King Cobra cluster, not sure where that name came from but would love to know. The cluster is about 2,800 light-years away from Earth. From Burnham's Celestial Handbook, Volume 1, "It is a compact group, some 15' in diameter, and containing 500 or more members, from the 10th to the 16th magnitudes." M67 has more than 100 stars similar to the Sun, and numerous red giants.
Distance to Earth: 2,800 light yearsRight ascension: 08h 51.3mDeclination: +11° 49′Apparent Magnitude: 6.1Common Name: King Cobra clusterFeatures: Three confirmed extrasolar planetsApparent dimensions: 30′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: November 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 15 April 2023

Comet C/2020 S4 in the Constellation Leo

Here is a view of comet C/2020 S4 in the constellation Leo from 13 Apr 2023, average magnitude during my 20 x 180 second images was estimated to be 17.65.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 20 x 180 seconds at 0C, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: April 13, 2023 (local). Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 14 April 2023

Comet 118P/Shoemaker-Levy Observation

Here is a view of comet 118P/Shoemaker-Levy from last evening (13 Apr 2023), average magnitude during my 20 x 180 second images was estimated to be 18.7 (about 1 magnitude dimmer than the predicted magnitude). Seems to be sporting a small tail as well.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 20 x 180 seconds at 0C, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: April 13, 2023 (local). Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - April 15, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 12 April 2023

Galaxy Messier 106 (NGC 4258)

Messier 106 (M106, also known as NGC 4258) is a spiral galaxy in the constellation Canes Venatici and is approximately 23.7 million light years from Earth. The galaxy is thought to contain 400 billion stars.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Canes VenaticiRight ascension: 12h 18m 57.5sDeclination: +47° 18′ 14″[1]Redshift: 448 ± 3 km/sDistance: 23.7 ± 1.5 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 8.4Size: 135,000 ly (in diameter)Apparent size (V): 18′.6 × 7′.2
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: November 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 10 April 2023

Sombrero Galaxy Messier 104 (M104)

The Sombrero Galaxy (also known as Messier Object 104, M104 or NGC 4594) is in the constellation Virgo. From my vantage point, it just makes it high enough over the roof of my house to capture some photons a few nights a year. The Sombrero Galaxy is about 31,000,000 light years away with an apparent magnitude of 8.3.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: VirgoRight ascension: 12h 39m 59.4sDeclination: −11° 37′ 23″Distance: 31.1 ± 1.0 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 8.0
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: March 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 6 April 2023

Globular Cluster NGC2419

Here is a view of the most distant globular cluster in the Milky Way, NGC 2419, some have postulated that this may be an extra-galactic object. I have seen distances listed as high as 285,000 light-years away from Earth. It appears small and dim, but it is actually very large and very bright (if it was a bit closer to us), there are estimates of 300-400 million solar masses in this cluster. This image combines data collected in 2021 and 2023 for a total of 1 hour 54 minutes of light.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VIIConstellation: LynxRight ascension: 07h 38m 08.51sDeclination: +38° 52′ 54.9″Distance: 275 klyApparent magnitude (V): +9.06Apparent dimensions (V): 6′
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO ASIAir Pro, ZWO EAF. 116 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: November 5, 2021 and January 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 3 April 2023

Leo I Dwarf Galaxy and Regulus

Leo I is a dwarf spheroidal galaxy in the constellation Leo. At about 820,000 light-years distant, it is a member of the Local Group of galaxies and is thought to be one of the most distant satellites of the Milky Way galaxy. Can you see the little blurry object to the left of the bright star Regulus? That is the Leo I dwarf galaxy.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 85 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 April 2023

Asteroid 521 Brixia Passing Near Messier 60 (M60)

Here is a 60-minute time lapse showing the asteroid 521 Brixia moving past the galaxies Messier 60 (M60) and NGC 4647. The galaxies together form a pair known as Arp 116. The Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies is a catalog of peculiar galaxies produced by Halton Arp in 1966. A total of 338 galaxies are presented in the atlas, which was originally published in 1966 by the California Institute of Technology. The primary goal of the catalog was to present photographs of examples of the different kinds of peculiar structures found among galaxies.
Brixia is a large asteroid orbiting between Mars and Jupiter in the main portion of the asteroid belt. NASA JPL has not classified Brixia as potentially hazardous because its orbit does not bring it close to Earth. Brixia orbits the sun every 1,660 days (4.54 years), coming as close as 1.98 AU and reaching as far as 3.51 AU from the sun. Brixia is about 107.2 kilometers in diameter, making it larger than 99% of asteroids, comparable in size to the U.S. state of Delaware. The rotation of Brixia has been observed. It completes a rotation on its axis every 28.48 hours.
At the time of my observation the estimated visual magnitude was 13.3.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount that is pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 30, 2023 (local). Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 30 March 2023

Lunar Halo - March 28, 2023

This is a lunar halo taken on March 28, 2023 from my backyard in Northeastern Pennsylvania. These halos are formed by ice crystals high in the atmosphere reflecting moonlight.
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Samyang 14mm Lens, tripod mounted, ISO 1000, 10 second single unguided exposure. Processed in Adobe Lightroom and StarSpikes Pro. Image Date: March 28, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 29 March 2023

Last Night’s First Quarter Moon - March 28, 2023

Last night’s first quarter moon, three panel mosaic taken under partly cloudy skies.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 20% of 3000 frames, processed using Autostakkert!, Registax, and Adobe Lightroom. Image Date: March 28, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - March 30, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 27 March 2023

Ceres Moving Near Messier 100 (M100)

Dwarf planet Ceres making a surprise (to me) visit through my imaging session of the spiral galaxy Messier 100 (M100) last evening. This is a 60-minute (time lapse) video clip.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 26, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 27 March 2023

Messier 37 - Open Cluster in Auriga

Messier 37 (NGC 2099) is a large open cluster found in the constellation of Auriga. It has an apparent magnitude of 6.2 and covers about 24 arc-minutes of sky, the distance from Earth is about 4,500 light-years. Did you know M37 has at least a dozen red giant stars included in the cluster?
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Constellation: AurigaRight ascension: 5h 52m 18sDeclination: +32° 33′ 02″Distance: 4.511 kly (1.383 kpc)Apparent magnitude (V): 6.2Apparent dimensions (V): 24′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: November 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 24 March 2023

The Cigar Galaxy - Messier 82

Messier 82 (also known as NGC 3034, Cigar Galaxy or M82) is a starburst galaxy about 12 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major and a member of the M81 Group. It is about five times more luminous than the whole Milky Way and has a center one hundred times more luminous than our galaxy’s center. The starburst activity is thought to have been triggered by interaction with neighboring galaxy M81. As the closest starburst galaxy (check the Wikipedia reference) to our own, M82 is the prototypical example of this galaxy type.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Ursa MajorRight ascension: 09h 55m 52.2sDeclination: +69° 40′ 47″Distance: 11.4–12.4 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 8.41
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 180 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session. Image Date: October 27, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 21 March 2023

Rosette Nebula in Hubble Palette

The Rosette Nebula (also known as Caldwell 49 or Sharpless 275) is a large spherical ionized atomic hydrogen region (H II region) that is circular in appearance and located near one end of a giant molecular cloud in the Monoceros region of the Milky Way Galaxy. The open cluster NGC 2244 (Caldwell 50) is closely associated with the nebulosity, the stars of the cluster having been formed from the nebula's matter (from Wikipedia). The nebula is about 5,200 light-years away and spans nearly 65 light-years. This version has been processed using the Hubble Palette.
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 06h 33m 45sDeclination: +04° 59′ 54″Distance: 5,200 lyApparent magnitude (V): 9.0Apparent dimensions (V): 1.3 °Constellation: Monoceros
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, 36 x 300 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 19 March 2023

Supernova 2023dbc Observation in Galaxy Messier 108 (M108)

Here is a view of supernova SN2023dbc in the galaxy Messier 108, at the time of my observation the estimated magnitude was 17.4. This is a Type II supernova and results from the rapid collapse and violent explosion of a massive star.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 3 x 180 seconds at -10C, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 19, 2023 @ 00:30 UT. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 18 March 2023

Supernova 2022aaiq Observation in Galaxy NGC5631

Here is a view of supernova SN2022aaiq in the galaxy NGC 5631, at the time of my observation the estimated magnitude was 15.7. This is a Type Ia supernova, a type of supernova that occurs in binary systems (two stars orbiting one another) in which one of the stars is a white dwarf. The other star can be anything from a giant star to an even smaller white dwarf.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 16, 2023 @ 00:30 UT. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 17 March 2023

Supernova 2023bvj Observation in Galaxy NGC3021

Here is a view of supernova SN2023bvj in the galaxy NGC 3021, at the time of my observation the estimated magnitude was 15.9. This is a Type II supernova and results from the rapid collapse and violent explosion of a massive star.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 16, 2023 @ 00:30 UT. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 16 March 2023

Comet C/2020 S4 (PANSTARRS) Observation

Here is a view of Comet C/2020 S4 (PANSTARRS) taken on March 15, 2023. At the time of my observation, the calculated magnitude was 17.0V and a movement speed of 0.131”/min.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 16, 2023 @ 00:46 UT. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 14 March 2023

Galaxies NGC 7805 and 7806 (Arp 112)

NGC 7805 (or Arp 112 ) is an interacting lenticular galaxy located in the constellation Pegasus. NGC 7805 is listed in the Halton Arp Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies as Arp 112, along with its neighboring galaxy NGC 7806 with which it forms an interacting pair of galaxies.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session. Image Date: October 21, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 10 March 2023

James Webb Space Telescope JWST Moving Through Leo

I captured 60 minutes of data trying to find the James Webb Space Telescope using positional data obtained from TheSkyLive (https://theskylive.com/where-is-jwst). This video shows the movement of the JWST over that 60 minute timeframe on March 9, 2023. The JWST is currently located in the constellation Leo. It has been confirmed that the flash seen in this video occurred while the JWST was slewing to a new target, reflecting sunlight back toward Earth. Pretty excited to have captured this.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 60 x 60 seconds. Processed using Tycho Tracker software. Image Date: March 9, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Supernova SN2023bee in the galaxy NGC 2708

Here is a view of supernova SN2023bee in the galaxy NGC 2708, at the time of my observation the estimated magnitude was 14.1.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 30 x 60 seconds. Processed Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 9, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Supernova SN2023axu in the galaxy NGC 2283

Here is a view of supernova SN2023axu in the galaxy NGC 2283, at the time of my observation it was at magnitude 14.9.
Galaxy Details:Constellation: Canis MajorMagnitude: 12.95 (B)Right ascension: 06h45mDeclination: -18°12' Distance: 9.9 Mpc 32.3 Mlyr
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 30 x 60 seconds with darks. Processed in Tycho Tracker. Image Date: March 9, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 8 March 2023

The Straight Wall on the Moon

Rupes Recta, a linear fault line, or rille, was casting quite the shadow on February 28, 2023. The name is Latin for straight cliff, although it is more commonly called the Straight Wall. This fault has a length of about 68 miles (110 kilometers). The small (11 miles wide) crater Birt lies just to the west.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI462MC, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, Tele Vue 2.5x Powermate, best 20% of 5000 frames. Processed with Autostakkert and Registax. Date: February 28, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 6 March 2023

Orion Nebula Messier 42 (M42)

The Orion Nebula (also known as Messier 42, M42, or NGC 1976) is a diffuse nebula situated in the Milky Way, being south of Orion's Belt in the constellation of Orion. It is one of the brightest nebulae and is visible to the naked eye in the night sky with apparent magnitude 4.0. It is about 1,344 light-years away and is the closest region of massive star formation to Earth. The M42 nebula is estimated to be 24 light-years across (so its apparent size from Earth is approximately 1 degree). It has a mass of about 2,000 times that of the Sun. (ref. Wikipedia) This image was taken through some high, thin cloud cover.
Observation data: J2000 epochSubtype: Reflection/EmissionRight ascension: 05h 35m 17.3sDeclination: −05° 23′ 28″Distance: 1,344±20 lyApparent magnitude (V): 4.0Apparent dimensions (V): 65×60 arcminsConstellation: Orion
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 24 x 300 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 8, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - March 6, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 3 March 2023

The Horsehead Nebula in the Constellation Orion

Here is a shot of one of the most photographed objects in the night sky, the Horsehead Nebula. The Horsehead Nebula is a diffuse dark nebula in the constellation Orion. The Horsehead Nebula is also referred to as Barnard 33 and is located inside the emission nebula IC 434 (the reddish background), it lies about 1,500 light-years away. The bright star to the left of the Horsehead Nebula is actually the star Alnitak, the leftmost star in the belt of Orion.
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 05h 40m 59.0sDeclination: −02° 27′ 30.0"Distance: 1,375±54 lyApparent magnitude (V): 6.8Apparent dimensions (V): 8 × 6 arcminsConstellation: Orion
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 24 x 300 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 13, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 2 March 2023

Supernova SN2022aagp in NGC 2777

Here is a view of supernova SN2022aagp in the galaxy NGC 2777, at the time of my observation the magnitude was calculated to be 15.1.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 54 x 60 seconds with darks. Stacked in DSS and processed in PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: February 25, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 2 March 2023

Supernova SN2022aaiq in NGC 5631

Here is a view of supernova SN2022aaiq in the galaxy NGC 5631, at the time of my observation the magnitude was calculated to be 14.7 but I am getting interference from the galaxy core.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 47 x 60 seconds with darks. Stacked in DSS and processed in PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: February 25, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 March 2023

Waxing Gibbous Moon - February 28, 2023

Here is a four image mosaic of last evening’s 66% illuminated Waxing Gibbous moon. Each panel is the best 20% of 5,000 images captured in video mode and stitched together using Microsoft Image Composite Editor (ICE).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI462MC, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, best 20% of 5000 frames on four panels. Processed with Autostakkert, Registax, and Microsoft ICE. Date: February 28, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 27 February 2023

Supernova SN2023bee in NGC 2708

Here is a view of supernova SN2023bee in the galaxy NGC 2708, at the time of my observation was at magnitude 13.2.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 54 x 60 seconds with darks. Stacked in DSS and processed in PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: February 24, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 26 February 2023

Supernova SN2023axu in NGC 2283

Here is a view of supernova SN2023axu in the galaxy NGC 2283, at the time of my observation was at magnitude 14.9.
Galaxy Details:Constellation: Canis MajorMagnitude: 12.95 (B)Right ascension: 06h45mDeclination: -18°12' Distance: 9.9 Mpc 32.3 Mlyr
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 54 x 60 seconds with darks. Stacked in DSS and processed in PixInsight and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: February 24, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 25 February 2023

27% Waxing Crescent Moon

The 27% illuminated waxing crescent moon from last evening. This is a three panel mosaic.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 3 x 1-minute video. Stacked in Autostakkert and stretched in Registax. Image Date: February 24, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 24 February 2023

Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF Observation

Here is a quick 37 minute stacked image of Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF - see you again in 50,000 years if you survive!
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 37 x 60 seconds with darks. Stacked in DSS and processed in PixInsight. Image Date: February 23, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 24 February 2023

18% Waxing Crescent Moon

The 18% illuminated waxing crescent moon from last evening and imaged under poor seeing conditions. This is a three panel mosaic.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 3 x 1-minute video. Stacked in Autostakkert and stretched in Registax. Image Date: February 23, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 21 February 2023

Messier 38 - Open Cluster in Auriga

Messier 38 (M38 or NGC 1912) is a large open cluster found in the constellation Auriga. It lies at a distance of about 4,200 light years away from Earth and is about 13 light years across. Also included in this view is open cluster NGC 1907 to the right of M38.
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Constellation: AurigaRight ascension: 05h 28m 43sDeclination: +35° 51′ 18″Distance: 3,480 lyApparent magnitude (V): 7.4Apparent dimensions (V): 21′Other designations: NGC 1912
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 18 February 2023

Running Man Nebula - NGC 1977 (Sharpless 279)

The Running Man Nebula (NGC 1977, Sharpless 279, Sh2-279) is an HII region and bright nebulae in the constellation Orion. It lies adjacent to the Orion Nebula (on the right side of this image). The entire complex also includes NGC 1973 and NGC 1975 that are divided by a darker nebulous region. Can you see the running man figure inside the nebula? Image was captured through some high level thin clouds.
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 05h 35m 16.2sDeclination: −04° 47′ 07″Distance: 1,500 lyApparent magnitude (V): 7.0Apparent dimensions (V): 40′×25′Constellation: Orion
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, Optolong L-eXtreme 2” filter, 36 x 300 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 8, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 16 February 2023

Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF in Taurus

While Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF has moved below the brightness of seeing it without an optical aid, it’s still visible with a modest pair of binoculars near the star Aldebaran for the next couple days. This was the view last evening.
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Canon 70-200mm Lens, iOptron SkyTracker, single 20-second exposure at 70mm and f/2.8. Image Date: February 15, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - February 17, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 13 February 2023

The Cigar Galaxy and Bode’s Galaxy in Ursa Major

Here is a view of galaxies Messier 81 (also known as NGC 3031 or Bode's Galaxy) and Messier 82 (also known as NGC 3034, Cigar Galaxy or M82) in the constellation Ursa Major. You can just start to see some of the integrated flux nebula that surrounds this area.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 97 x 60 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: November 21, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 10 February 2023

The Pinwheel Galaxy – Messier 101 (M101 or NGC 5457)

The Pinwheel Galaxy (also known as Messier 101, M101 or NGC 5457) is a face-on spiral galaxy 21 million light-years (6.4 megaparsecs) away from Earth in the constellation Ursa Major. M101 is a large galaxy, with a diameter of 170,000 light-years. By comparison, the Milky Way has a diameter of between 100,000 and 120,000 light-years. It has around a trillion stars.
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Ursa MajorRight ascension: 14h 03m 12.6sDeclination: +54° 20′ 57″Distance: 20.9 ± 1.8 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 7.9
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 66 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Comet ZTF 2023-01-29 07-10-28.mp4

RELEASE DATE: 8 February 2023

Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF Observation

Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF moving through my field of view on February 4, 2023.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro, 50 x 60 seconds. Processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: February 4, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 6 February 2023

Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF Observation

Here is a 50-minute stacked image of Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro, 50 x 60 seconds. Processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: February 4, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 5 February 2023

The Moon in High Contrast

Here is a view of last evening’s near full moon in high contrast. This is a four panel mosaic captured using the video capture mode of the ZWO ASIAIR Plus. Each panel was a one minute video processed in Autostakkert software.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 4 x 1-minute video. Image Date: February 4, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 3 February 2023

Winter Lunar Halo

While I love seeing lunar halo's, I did not like seeing this one on the night of February 1, 2023, ending my observation of the "Green Comet" early because of cloud cover. I have highlighted some of the brighter stars for you. You can learn more about this phenomena at https://www.space.com/moon-halo
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Samyang 14mm Lens, tripod mounted, ISO 2500, 5 second exposure unguided. Image Date: February 1, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

2023-02-02 06-39-12.mp4

RELEASE DATE: 2 February 2023

C/2022 E3 (ZTF) Observation (Video)

Here is a 60-minute time lapse video showing the movement of Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF during its close approach to Earth, watch the changes in the ion tail during the video.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro, 60 x 60 seconds. Processed using Tycho v9.3.7. Image Date: February 1, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 February 2023

C/2022 E3 (ZTF) Observation

Here is a 48-minute stacked image taken during our live stream event last evening of Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF during its closest approach to Earth. Tycho software (Daniel Parrott) estimated the movement at 16.7" per minute.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro, 48 x 60 seconds. Processed using DeepSkyStacker and PixInsight. Image Date: February 1, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 31 January 2023

Barred Spiral Galaxy NGC 3344 in Leo Minor

NGC 3344 is a relatively isolated barred spiral galaxy located 22.5 million light years away in the constellation Leo Minor. This galaxy belongs to the group known as the Leo spur, which is a branch of the Virgo Supercluster. There is both an inner and outer ring, with the prominent arms radiating outward from the inner ring and the slightly elliptical bar being situated inside. (ref: Wikipedia)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Leo MinorRight ascension: 10h 43m 31.150sDeclination: +24° 55′ 19.99″Distance: 22.5 Mly (6.90 Mpc)Apparent magnitude (V): 10.5
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 179 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using DSS. Image Date: February 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Comet ZTF 2023-01-29 07-10-28.mp4

RELEASE DATE: 29 January 2023

Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF Through Clouds

Here is a 60-minute time lapse video showing the movement of Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF traveling through Camelopardalis (with clouds and lost tracking). Tycho software (Daniel Parrott) estimated the movement at 14.1" per minute. The magnitude estimate was significantly off due to the cloud cover.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro, 60 x 60 seconds. Processed using Tycho v9.3.7. Image Date: January 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 27 January 2023

The Soul Nebula IC1871 in Hubble Palette

This is a three panel mosaic of the large star forming region called the Soul Nebula (Embryo Nebula, IC 1871, Sh2-199) and is found in the constellation Cassiopeia. Processed in the Hubble Palette color scheme. This is a total of 9 hours of exposure time over two evenings.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, Optolong L-eNhance 2” Filter, three panels each 36 x 300 seconds (9 hours total) guided exposures, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: October 21 and 27, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - January 27, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 24 January 2023

The Head of the Soul Nebula IC1871

This is a sectional view of the large star forming region called the Soul Nebula (Embryo Nebula, IC 1871, Sh2-199) and is found in the constellation Cassiopeia. This nebula is often shown next to the Heart Nebula (IC 1805). The Soul Nebula is about 6,500 light years away from Earth and contains several open clusters and few smaller emission nebulae around the perimeter. The star clusters are surrounded by hydrogen, which glows red from the young hot stars nearby. This view only shows about 1/3 of the entire nebula.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, Optolong L-eNhance 2” Filter, 30 x 300 second guided exposures, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: October 21, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Georgia and Heidelberga.mp4

RELEASE DATE: 21 Jan 2023

Asteroids 359 Georgia and 325 Heidelberga

This is a 60-minute time lapse video that captured both asteroid 359 Georgia and 325 Heidelberga in the same field of view.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 60 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

Comet29P.mp4

RELEASE DATE: 19 Jan 2023

Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1 Observation

Here is a 60-minute time lapse video showing Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1 moving through the constellation Auriga.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

119P_011623.mp4

RELEASE DATE: 18 Jan 2023

Comet 119P/Parker-Hartley Observation

Here is a 40-minute time lapse video showing Comet 119P/Parker-Hartley moving through the constellation Gemini in the early morning hours of January 16, 2023.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 40 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

2023-01-17 06-42-12.mp4

RELEASE DATE: 17 January 2023

Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) in Motion

This video shows the movement of Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) over the period of one hour. Processed in a software package called Tycho (v9.3.7) by Daniel Parrott.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 60 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 16 January 2023

C/2022 E3 (ZTF) Observation

Here is a 60-minute combined exposure showing Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) in the early morning hours and moving through the constellation Bootes.
You can see the thin ion tails extending to the upper left, likely the result of a variable solar wind on ions ejected by the icy comet nucleus. The comet's white dust tail is visible to the left and much shorter. The green glow is the comet's coma, caused by glowing carbon gas. Comet ZTF is expected to pass nearest the Earth in early February, after which it should dim dramatically. (REF: https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap230109.html).
From EarthSky.org “Astronomers call this comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF). It got its name because it was the third such object to be discovered in the fifth half-month (A, B, C, D, E) of 2022. The ZTF stands for the Zwicky Transient Facility, which uses the 48-inch Samuel Oschin robotic telescope, located at Mt. Palomar in southern California.”
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 60 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 14 January 2023

Mira-Type Variable Star R Andromedea

Latest observation data on Mira-Type variable star R Andromedea. According to the ASAS-SN Variable Stars Database, this star has a period of 219 days. I’ve selected four long-period variable stars to observe and record over the next several years. The graph shows observations on this star over the last 75 days. You can check these observations any time HERE.

RELEASE DATE: 10 January 2023

Elliptical Galaxy Messier 105 (M105) and Friends

The galaxies M105, NGC 3384 and NGC 3373 form a nice galactic triplet in the constellation Leo. M105 is the elliptical galaxy on the right of the image, NGC 3384 is the elliptical galaxy on the upper left and NGC 3373 is a spiral galaxy on the lower left. Magnitudes for these galaxies are 9.3 for M105, 10.0 for NGC 3384 and 11.8 for NGC 3373. The distance to these galaxies is roughly 30+ million light years.
Observation data (J2000 epoch) for M105Constellation: LeoRight ascension: 10h 47m 49.600sDeclination: +12° 34′ 53.87″Distance: 36.6 Mly (11.22 Mpc)Group or cluster: Leo I GroupApparent magnitude (V): 9.3
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 160 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using DSS. Image Date: February 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - January 11, 2023

RELEASE DATE: 7 January 2023

Arp 229 Elliptical Galaxy in Pisces

The focus of this image is the pair of elliptical galaxies in the center of view, they are the large elliptical galaxy NGC 507 and the smaller one above is NGC 508. They are located 210 million light years away in the constellation of Pisces. NGC 507 is classified in the Arp Catalog as Arp 229, Galaxies with Concentric Rings. Looking closely at my image you can see the “ring” which Arp identified. There are so many galaxies in this image!
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
ANNOTATED IMAGE

RELEASE DATE: 4 January 2023

Arp 99/Hickson 93 Galaxy Group in Pegasus

This is a grouping of galaxies collectively known as Arp 99 (Arp Catalog of Peculiar Galaxies) and as Hickson 93 (Hickson Compact Group 93), all found in the constellation Pegasus. The three main galaxies in the image are the elliptical galaxy (center) NGC 7550, NGC 7547 is the small spiral galaxy to the left, and NGC 7549, the stretched barred spiral below NGC 7550 (this is interacting with the elliptical galaxy).
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 1 January 2023

Messier 36 - Open Cluster in Auriga

Messier 36 (M36 or NGC 1960) lies at a distance of about 4,100 light years away from Earth in the constellation Auriga and is about 14 light years across. There are at least sixty members in the cluster. The cluster is very similar to the Pleiades cluster (M45), and if it were the same distance from Earth it would be of similar brightness.
Distance: 4,340 light year.Radius: 7 light yearRight ascension: 05h 36m 18.0sDeclination: +34° 08′ 24″Apparent Magnitude: 6.3
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DeepSkyStacker. Image Date: November 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

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