fallow smelt
Coathanger Cluster:
The Coathanger, also known as Brocchi’s Cluster or Collinder 399, is an eye-catching asterism located in the constellation Vulpecula. It lies approximately 260 to 300 light-years from Earth and is easily recognizable by its distinct shape resembling a coat hanger. Contrary to its name, the Coathanger is not a true star cluster. Although it was once believed to be an open cluster of stars, studies have shown that the stars in Brocchi’s Cluster are not gravitationally bound and are located at various distances from one another. Instead, it is classified as an asterism, a pattern of stars that appears grouped together from our perspective but doesn’t form a true stellar association.
The data for this image was captured at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Star Party 2024, held in a pristine Bortle 1 zone at the Indian Astronomical Observatory. Located in Hanle, India, the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) is operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Perched at an incredible 4,500 meters (14,764 ft) in the Western Himalayas, it’s one of the highest spots globally for observing the universe with optical, infrared, and gamma-ray telescopes.
Imaging Telescopes: William Optics ZenithStar 73iii / ZS73iii
Imaging Camera: ZWO ASI2600MC Pro
Mount: ZWO AM3
Accessories: Beelink U59 Mini PC · William Optics Flat73A · ZWO EAF
Softwares: Pixinsight, Serif Affinity Photo
Lights: 31×300″(2h 35′)
cerulean aspen
teal juniper