Constellation Report

The Deep Sky Wonder of Corona BorealisThis weekend we move on to the constellation Corona Borealis The Northern Crown. This constellation sits between Bootes to the west and Hercules to the east. 

 

 

 

Deep Sky Report

The focus of our efforts here will be the deep sky objects of Corona Borealis

To find Corona Borealis, simply find the bright star Arcturus in Bootes. Remember to follow the arc of the Big Dipper to Arcturus ("Arc to Arcturus..."). Bootes extends north of Arcturus ("...and drive a spike to Spica"). Finally, move slightly east to "U" shaped Corona Borealis.

Corona Borealis, while not exactly a deep sky observers dream, offers a nice rich-field view of the constellation and surrounding stars. Scan through the area and examine the star patterns that it contains. 


Irregular Galaxy NGC5958Ok, let's start things off with Irregular Galaxy NGC5958(mag13). You'll need at least 6" of aperture and dark skies to find this faint fuzzy.

Irregular Galaxy NGC5961Next we'll hit another Irregular Galaxy NGC5961(mag14). This dim and distant is also best observed with larger aperture scopes. Simply finding this (and a couple of it's fainter neighbors) is an accomplishment.

Irregular Galaxy IC4569Continuing along we come to Irregular Galaxy IC4569(mag15) 

Irregular Galaxy IC4574Let's wrap things up with this weeks Utah Skies Challenge Object, Irregular Galaxy IC4574(mag16).

Except for the fact that there are some bright stars nearby, this just may be the toughest Utah Skies Challenge Object ever. Are you up for the challenge?

Good Luck!