The cover of the June 2024 issue with a large red semi-transparent nebula against a dark background
Digital Edition

Undiscovered Nebulae, Star Pairs, and Stellar Collisions

In the June 2024 issue of Sky & Telescope, we demonstrate that, with the latest equipment and imaging techniques, amateur astronomers can now discover more new objects than ever before. Follow along as we show how groups of amateurs are discovering hundreds of previously uncataloged nebulae. Then, we watch a binary star smashup: We discuss what astronomers are learning about stellar mergers after having caught a bunch of binary stars in the act. Speaking of things that come in twos, we’ve picked out some stunning naked-eye star pairs to observe this month. Finally, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory is nearly ready for first light, so we look at how they built this massive observatory and what astronomers expect to learn from it.

FEATURE ARTICLES

When Stars Collide

Astronomers have caught a handful of binary stars merging. Many stars may someday suffer the same dramatic fate.  

By Morgan MacLeod

Seeking Star Pairs

Cast your gaze skyward to admire some inspiring naked-eye stellar duos.

By Tony Flanders

A Faint Scattering of Stars

Walter Baade’s dogged curiosity helped unveil a bigger and older universe.

By Steve Murray

Rubin’s Revolution

The Rubin Observatory is set to bring astronomers a data deluge on everything from asteroids to dark energy.

By Govert Schilling

In Search of the New

Intrepid amateurs have found hundreds of uncataloged nebulae.

By Howard Banich

Beyond the Printed Page:

Daylight Saturn

Learn how and when to watch the Moon occult Saturn during the daytime.

Planetary Nebulae

Check out this group of French amateurs dedicated to the discovery of new planetary nebulae.

Amateur Sky Survey

Explore Associate Editor Sean Walker and Senior Contributing Editor Denis di Cicco’s MDW Sky Survey.

DIY Stargazing Binoculars

Build your own “Magic” binocular scope.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

The Tragic Tale of Thisbe’s Veil

A mist of delicate starlight lends an air of mystique to the June night sky.

By Stephen James O’Meara

Solar Cycle 25 Update

Get your solar filters and scopes ready as activity on the Sun ramps up to maximum.

By Bob King

Craters Younger Than We Thought

New crater counts help to revise our understanding of lunar chronology.

By Charles A. Wood

Mod Your Camera for Astrophotography

Here’s how you can get more out of the camera you already have.

By Richard S. Wright, Jr.

Table of Contents

See what else June’s issue has to offer.

Comments


You must be logged in to post a comment.