The Tarantula Nebula, barred spiral galaxy NGC 2188, and barred spiral galaxy NGC 1744

January 5–12, 2012: The Tarantula Nebula (NGC 2070) offers small-telescope owners nice views, while large-telescope owners can seek out barred spiral galaxy NGC 2188 in Columba and barred sprial NGC 1744 in Lepus.

By Michael E. Bakich

Published: January 5, 2012

One of the most popular southern sky targets, the Tarantula Nebula (NGC 2070) spans nearly 1,000 light-years.

Photo by Astronomy: Roen Kelly

Each week, Astronomy magazine Senior Editor Michael E. Bakich, a master at explaining how to observe, posts a podcast about three objects or events you can see in the sky.

Targets for January 5–12, 2012
Small telescope: The Tarantula Nebula (NGC 2070)
Large telescope: Barred spiral galaxy NGC 2188
Large telescope: Barred spiral galaxy NGC 1744

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