The Coathanger Cluster is a very rewarding target for anyone with a pair of binoculars.
While you’re out observing meteors in this month (because you are, right?), you might be interested in taking along a telescope or binoculars and locating some new dim objects. The Coathanger Cluster is a very rewarding target for anyone with a pair of binoculars. Also known as Brocchi’s Cluster, it’s a tiny star formation found within the starlit band of the Milky Way. It really does resemble an inverted coathanger, and it’s surprisingly easy to find!
The Coathanger is located in the constellation Vulpecula, but it’s easiest to find it by star-hopping from the larger constellation, Cygnus. Cygnus is high in the southern skies in August evenings.
Cygnus is named after a swan. It’s also unofficially known as the Northern Cross, because of its unique shape. Anyway, you’ll want to find Albireo, one of the brighter stars in this constellation. If you can picture the swan in this collection of stars, then Albireo is the swan’s “head”. If you prefer to see the cross, then Albireo is the cross’ “base”.
So, once you’ve found Albireo, you’ll want to find the brightest star in its vicinity. That’ll be Alpha Vulpeculae. Get out your imaginary pencil and draw a line from Albireo through Alpha Vulpeculae, and you’ll be led straight to the Coathanger. You probably won’t be able to see it with your naked eye, but a bit of scanning with your pair of binoculars should reveal it fairly quickly.
Interestingly, the Coathanger Cluster isn’t really a cluster. It’s actually just an asterism—a collection of stars that creates a distinct shape, but isn’t recognized as a constellation. Regardless of its classification, it’s really pretty! And, once you get bored of looking at it, take a closer look at Alpha Vulpeculae. Viewed through binoculars, it’s split into two stars, though in reality they are not gravitationally-bound. And, if you have a telescope handy, Albireo is another great target. It’s a beautiful binary star with a stunning color contrast.
Read more by Katharina on her page Sky Watcher
