Another interesting
object to be found in Aquarius is M73. This object is unlike
most of Messier's other discoveries. M73 is a small cluster of
four stars. It is officially classified as an asterism. An
asterism is a star pattern, and is different from a
constellation. For example, the big dipper is an asterism within
the constellation of Ursa Major. M73 may appear as a nebula at
first glance with small instruments. Some astronomers believe
this object to be a true star cluster, but there is little
evidence at this time to support that claim. M73 is easily
visible in binoculars, but it takes a telescope to resolve the
individual stars in the formation.
