clear moonless night in winter or spring as a faint nebulous
object, surrounded by three small stars. The smallest telescope
shows it as a group of stars.

Of all stellar objects, the great nebula of Orion is that which
has most fascinated the astronomers of two centuries. It is
distinctly visible to the naked eye, and may be found without
difficulty on any winter night. The three bright stars forming the
sword-belt of Orion are known to every one who has noticed that
constellation. Below this belt is seen another triplet of stars,
not so bright, and lying in a north and south direction. The
middle star of this triplet is the great nebula. At first the
naked eye sees nothing to distinguish it from other stars, but if
closely scanned it will be seen to have a hazy aspect. A four-inch
telescope will show its curious form. Not the least interesting of
its features are the four stars known as the "Trapezium," which
are located in a dark region near its centre. In fact, the whole
nebula is dotted with stars, which add greatly to the effect
produced by its mysterious aspect.

The great nebula of Andromeda is second only to that of Orion in
interest. Like the former, it is distinctly visible to the naked
eye, having the aspect of a faint comet. The most curious feature
of this object is that although the most powerful telescopes do
not resolve it into stars, it appears in the spectroscope as if it
were solid matter shining by its own light.

The above are merely selections from the countless number of
objects which the heavens offer to telescopic study. Many such are
described in astronomical works, but the amateur can gratify his