AAPOD2 Image Archives
Double Cluster in a bed of H-Alpha
The Double Cluster, a celestial gem that graces the northern night sky, is a breathtaking duo of two open star clusters: NGC 869 and NGC 884, situated in the constellation Perseus. This cosmic pair, located approximately 7,500 light-years away from Earth, captivates stargazers with its luminous splendor. Comprising a multitude of young, hot stars, the Double Cluster's brilliance illuminates the surrounding dark skies, making it a favorite among astronomers and amateur stargazers alike. Its stars formed from the same interstellar cloud, yet they embarked on unique stellar journeys, resulting in a spectacular celestial ballet. When observed with binoculars or a telescope, the Double Cluster unveils a resplendent tapestry of stars, providing a glimpse into the captivating intricacies of the cosmos. In this particular image, the photographer has skillfully captured some very faint hydrogen-alpha (HA) emissions, adding an ethereal touch to the already mesmerizing celestial display, revealing the hidden threads that bind these stellar jewels together.