NGC 869 & NGC 884: A Double Open Cluster

Explanation : Most star clusters are singularly impressive. But open clusters NGC 869 and NGC 884 are doubly impressive. Also known as “h and chi Persei”, this rare double cluster, shown above , is bright enough to be seen from a dark location without even binoculars. Although their discovery surely predates written history, the “double cluster” was notably cataloged by the Greek astronomer Hipparcos . The clusters are over 7000 light years distant toward the constellation of Perseus , but are separated by only hundreds of light years.