Andromeda is on a collision course with our galaxy. Now begins the best time of year to capture it with the naked eye.
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This is what Andromeda galaxy will look like in the night sky if it were brighter.
The Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies, which are each home to billions of stars, are indeed on a collision course. Moving toward each other at a speed of 113 kilometers per second, they are expected to collide in approximately 4.5 billion years. As they approach, their outer layers have already begun to merge, creating a bridge of stars between the two galaxies.
Despite the distance, the Andromeda galaxy can be observed with the naked eye during certain times of the year. From mid-August to November, it appears in the night sky of both hemispheres, with a size of approximately half the width of a full moon.
Observing Andromeda and other galaxies can provide us with a deeper understanding of the universe and our place within it. As astronomers continue to study these vast and complex systems, we gain insights into the nature of the cosmos and the origins of our own galaxy and solar system.
Andromeda Galaxy in a clear sky with no light pollution. Photo: Earth Sky
When will the Andromeda galaxy be visible?
Observing Andromeda with the naked eye can be challenging due to its diffuse glow and the need for a clear sky with little light pollution. To capture the galaxy, it is best to observe it on nights close to the new moon phase, when there is an absence of lunar brightness.
In August, the new moon phase will arrive in the last week of the month, from August 24 to 31, making it an ideal time to observe Andromeda. To get the best view, it is recommended to find a location with minimal light pollution, such as outside cities or in rural areas.
In addition to observing Andromeda with the naked eye, it is also possible to capture images of the galaxy using telescopes and cameras. By studying these images, astronomers can gain insights into the structure and composition of Andromeda and other galaxies, helping us to better understand the nature of our universe.
Location of Andromeda in the Peruvian sky at 3 am on August 24. Image: Stellarium / The Republic
How to locate Andromeda in the sky?
Andromeda can be observed above the horizon heading northeast around midnight in Peru and other countries in the southern hemisphere, including Argentina and Chile. In the northern hemisphere, such as in Mexico and Spain, it can be seen hours earlier.
To locate Andromeda, it is situated next to the Andromeda constellation, which is named after the character in Greek mythology. Andromeda is located at the height of the constellation’s “belt.” Additionally, the Pegasus constellation, which is characterized by a quadrilateral formed by its stars, can serve as a guide to locate the galaxy.
Observing Andromeda and other celestial objects can be a fascinating and rewarding experience, providing us with a glimpse into the vastness and complexity of our universe. Whether observing with the naked eye or using advanced telescopes and cameras, there is always something new to discover and learn about the cosmos.
The star Mirach can also help locate the Andromeda galaxy. Image: Stellarium / The Republic
The best time to see Andromeda is between 2:00 am and 3:00 am when it is located in the north and at its highest point in the sky. At this time, the conditions are optimal for observing the galaxy with the naked eye or with binoculars.
To the naked eye, Andromeda will appear as a small cloud with some detail. However, using binoculars or a telescope, you can clearly see the majesty of this neighboring galaxy. Through binoculars or a telescope, Andromeda appears as a spiral galaxy, with a bright central bulge and several spiral arms extending outwards.
Observing Andromeda and other galaxies can be a humbling experience, as it highlights the vastness and complexity of the universe. By studying these celestial objects, astronomers can gain insights into the origins and evolution of our universe, helping us to better understand our place within it.
Location of the Andromeda galaxy (no illustration of the constellations). Image: Stellarium / The Republic
The best time to observe Andromeda is indeed between 2:00 am and 3:00 am when it is located in the north and at its highest point in the sky. At this time, the conditions are optimal for observing the galaxy with the naked eye or with binoculars.
With binoculars or a telescope, Andromeda appears as a spiral galaxy, with a bright central bulge and several spiral arms extending outwards. The galaxy is home to billions of stars, and studying its structure and composition can provide insights into the evolution and behavior of galaxies.
Observing Andromeda and other galaxies can be a humbling and inspiring experience, reminding us of the vastness and complexity of the universe. By studying these celestial objects, astronomers can deepen our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
