Planets
Jupiter and Saturn set the rhythm of January nights. Jupiter climbs higher in the sky as the hours pass, while Saturn can be observed right after nightfall… before slipping below the horizon.
Observation tip: start your evening with Saturn, then enjoy Jupiter later.
A Cluster in the Tadpole Nebula (NGC 1893)
About 12,000 light-years away, NGC 1893 is an open cluster nestled in the heart of the Tadpole Nebula (IC 410). You’ll see young stars born from the surrounding gas — a stellar nursery that is still active.
Observation tip: a few minutes are enough to spot the cluster, but wait longer to glimpse the emission nebula.
The Monkey Head Nebula (NGC 2174)
In Orion, about 6,400 light-years away, NGC 2174 stretches across an active star-forming region. Its ionized gas is lit up by young stars, but the overall glow remains subtle — it needs time to reveal itself.
Observation tip: this is a faint target — plan on about 30 minutes of observing under a good sky.
M74: Photo Credit Stuart fort
See you next month for more reasons to look up!
Happy stargazing with UNISTELLAR.
Further readings
3 Reasons to observe this month
On Jupiter: Imagine moons casting their shadows on a giant planet. Right now, Jupiter’s moons offer an exceptional show: eclipses visible even from urban areas. Each time a moon passes in front of the Sun, it creates a shadow that dances across Jupiter’s surface. Check our dedicated article to catch every passage of Io, Europa, or Ganymede.
Two spooky appearances in the sky for Halloween
Every month, discover three unmissable celestial events to observe with your Unistellar telescope.
3 Reasons to observe this month Halloween Edition
Every month, discover three unmissable celestial events to observe with your Unistellar telescope.
Unistellar Community Included In Multiple Scientific Papers
Did you know Unistellar Citizen Astronomers are often cited in published scientific papers? Find out how you can contribute too!
When Is the Next Solar Eclipse, and How to Observe It With a Unistellar Telescope
An annular solar eclipse is visible from the Americas on October 14. Learn how to witness the Ring of Fire with your Unistellar Telescope!
Halloween Observing Guide: Spooky Deep-Sky Objects
These Halloween deep-sky objects will add some light to those dark, spooky nights. Treats, tricks, and telescopes await!