Rory Glasgow Caldwell Objects, NGC Objects, Open Clusters

The Perseus Double Cluster

There are several “double clusters” in the sky, but this pair in the constellation Perseus is THE double cluster. Collectively referred to as Caldwell 14, the cluster on the left is cataloged as NGC 884 and the one on the right is NGC 886.

Perseus Double Cluster. 141 x 60s at 60 gain on the Dwarf 3, processed in Siril.

The Perseus Double Cluster is a beautiful sight in binoculars and telescopes, too. Viewing these bright clusters of stars on a crisp, cold night is a special treat, in my opinion.

A special feature of NGC 886 is a group of stars that I like to call the Perseus Man:

Perseus Man

The constellation Perseus depicts the hero of Greek mythology holding the head of Medusa. Perseus Man looks to be holding something in his left hand (the bright star at center-right), so it’s almost like Perseus is holding the head of Medusa within Perseus holding the head of Medusa!