Every year, stargazers convene for the “Messier Marathon” – a challenge to observe as many cosmic objects from the Messier catalog as possible in a single night! This catalog was compiled in the 1700s by French astronomer Charles Messier, and features several ideal targets for backyard astronomers. No telescope? No problem! Stargaze from your screen with Hubble, as a suite of new Messier images are unveiled from March 14-21.

Messier 10
Hubble’s ultraviolet image of Messier 10’s dense core reveals its high population of blue stragglers.
History
Charles Messier
Charles Messier (1730–1817) was a French astronomer best known for his “Catalog of Nebulae and Star Clusters.”
An avid comet-hunter, Messier compiled a catalog of deep-sky objects in order to help prevent other comet enthusiasts from wasting their time studying objects that were not comets.
Hubble Science Highlights
Hubble’s most notable scientific discoveries reflect the broad range of research and the breakthroughs it has achieved.
Hubble Images
Explore Hubble’s astronomical and mission images.
Hubble Posters
Download and print some of Hubble’s most iconic images.
Hubble Online Activities
Expand your cosmic horizons and get to know the telescope behind some of astronomy’s most groundbreaking discoveries. Explore our interactives, sky maps, games, Hubble models, and more.
Hubble’s Design
Hubble is the first space-based observatory specifically designed for servicing while in orbit.
Hubble e-Books
Hubble has a wealth of free e-books available to download. Explore our Hubble Focus series and learn more about a specific scientific phenomena, or discover one of our other e-books that provide an overview of the mission, celebrate anniversaries, and more. Happy reading!
Hubble 3D Models
Explore the components of NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope by printing your own 3D model!
Keep Exploring
