NGC 8
A double star in the constellation Pegasus.
NGC 8 is a double star located in the constellation Pegasus. It is part of the New General Catalogue, which primarily catalogs star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies.
- Ngc designation
- 8
- Object type
- double star
- Constellation
- Pegasus
Lore & Background
NGC 8 is recorded as a double star in the New General Catalogue, a comprehensive astronomical catalogue compiled by J. L. E. Dreyer. The catalogue includes various celestial objects such as star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies, with NGC 8 falling under the category of double stars. Its position in the constellation Pegasus places it among other NGC objects in that region of the sky. The data for NGC 8, like other entries in the catalogue, is derived from historical observations and compiled in Dreyer's work, which remains a standard reference for astronomers.
Reader's Guide
NGC 8, as a double star, represents one of the many types of objects cataloged in the New General Catalogue. While the catalogue is best known for its extensive listings of galaxies and nebulae, it also includes double stars, which are important for studying stellar dynamics and binary systems. The inclusion of NGC 8 in the catalogue highlights the breadth of Dreyer's compilation, which aimed to document all known non-stellar objects and star systems visible through telescopes of the era. For astronomers, NGC 8 serves as a reference point in the constellation Pegasus, contributing to the overall mapping of the night sky. Its classification as a double star underscores the diversity of objects within the NGC, which ranges from individual stars to complex galaxy groups like Robert's Quartet. The catalogue's enduring legacy lies in its systematic organization, enabling researchers to locate and study objects such as NGC 8 across various astronomical contexts.
Did You Know?
- NGC 8 is a double star in the constellation Pegasus.
- It is part of the New General Catalogue, which includes star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies.
- The catalogue was compiled by J. L. E. Dreyer.
- NGC 8 is among the objects listed in the NGC 1–1000 range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NGC 8?
NGC 8 is a double star system that received its designation in the New General Catalogue of deep-sky objects. It is located within the boundaries of the constellation Pegasus.
Where in the sky can I find NGC 8?
Point your telescope or binoculars toward the constellation Pegasus, which dominates autumn and winter night skies in the northern hemisphere.
Why does a double star appear in the NGC catalog?
The New General Catalogue was originally intended to list star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies, but a handful of double stars were included by mistake or oversight. NGC 8 is one of those rare stellar entries among predominantly deep-sky objects.
What type of object is NGC 8?
It is classified as a double star, meaning two stars bound in a mutual orbit, rather than a galaxy, nebula, or open cluster.
Is NGC 8 a common target for amateur astronomers?
It can be picked up in binoculars or a small telescope while sweeping Pegasus, but it rarely draws the same crowds as the constellation's more famous deep-sky showpieces.
More in NGC Objects 1-24
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