Embrace the Arrival of Astronomical Autumn!

Mark your calendars! The autumnal equinox strikes at 2:19 PM EDT today, heralding a celestial shift as the Sun journeys directly above the equator. This stunning event equalizes sunlight across both hemispheres—kissing summer goodbye in the Northern Hemisphere while ushering in spring for our friends down south!

Gaze into the Cosmos: Discover the Double Cluster!

As if nature knew we needed a grand display, the night sky presents a breathtaking spectacle: the Double Cluster in Perseus! This stellar duo consists of two open clusters, NGC 869 and NGC 884, just a half degree apart in the northwestern Perseus constellation. Ready to embark on a stargazing adventure? Look four and a half degrees west-northwest of the 4th-magnitude star, Eta Persei, around 10 PM for the best views—elevated 40 degrees in the northeast!

A Celestial Treat: Features of the Double Cluster!

Both NGC 869 and NGC 884 shine brightly at around 4th magnitude, allowing you to appreciate their beauty even through binoculars. Want to savor the details? Opt for higher magnification on each cluster—NGC 869, rich with stars, lies to the west, while the slightly more modest NGC 884 is home to the ever-changing RS Persei, a mesmerizing red supergiant star at its center.

Daylight Details: Timing Your Skywatching!

Make the most of your day with these celestial timings—Sunrise at 6:46 AM and Sunset at 6:56 PM. Plus, witness the Moon rise at 7:35 AM and set at 7:12 PM. The Moon graces us as a waxing crescent, just 1% illuminated, perfect for those who fancy a bit of night sky magic!

Join the marvel of the heavens this autumn—grab your binoculars and let the stars guide your evening!