Astro Tourism

Messier Marathon - A Global Event!

Everyone is encouraged to not only enjoy the iconic Messier objects, but inspire others to discover more about our universe. A stellar opportunity to view Deep Sky Objects and become a part of this celebration happening worldwide.

Explore the iconic Messier Catalog

Come visit our Astroports to participate in the annual Messier Marathon, learn more about galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, and connect deeper with the
cosmos!

About Earth

Solar System

Sun

Messier Marathon

But what is a Messier Marathon?

Amateur astronomers try to find as many Messier Objects as possible during one night and this endeavor is known as the Messier Marathon. Messier Objects are Deep Sky Objects (Galaxies, nebulae, star clusters) that were cataloged by French astronomer Charles Messier in the 18th century, and are 110 in number. Low northern latitudes are the best locations for this endeavor, and the best time is from mid-March to early April.

If you’re not having fun with what you’re doing then you’re doing it wrong

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