EarthSky | What are Messier objects?
The complete list of 110 Messier objects is called the Messier Catalog. And they are classified in three broad categories, as either nebulae, star clusters or galaxies. The Messier list starts with 103 deep-sky objects by the 18th century French astronomer Charles Messier. Eventually, seven more additions in the 20th century, bring the list up to 110 objects. Specifically, these deep-sky objects refer to astronomical bodies other than stars or planets. The Messier objects all appear as fuzzy, nebulous patches in the sky. The names of Messier objects come from their number in the original catalog by Charles Messier. For example, the Pleiades star cluster is number 45, Messier 45 or simply M45. In addition to their numbers, many Messier objects have common names, such as the Pleiades, aka the 7 Sisters. Messier objects are easily observed with a small telescope. And a few are visible using only binoculars or even just the eye alone. Since all the Messier objects are fairly bright, findin
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