The Messier Catalog

The Messier Catalog is a list of 110 astronomical objects, including galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae, created by French astronomer Charles Messier in the 18th century. Designed to help astronomers distinguish these faint objects from wandering comets, the catalog serves as a useful guide for stargazing. Many of these objects are among the brightest and most visible deep-sky objects, making them popular targets for amateur astronomers with telescopes or binoculars. Overall, the Messier Catalog provides a structured way to explore and understand the universe beyond our solar system.