The Double Cluster approximately marks the illuminated point of the Perseid meteor shower, which peaks annually around August 12 or 13. Although easy to locate in the northern sky, observing the Double Cluster in its two parts requires optical aid. They are an "awe-inspiring" and "breathtaking" sight, and are often cited as a target in astronomy observer's guides

This image was taken with a Canon 40D and 8" Ritchey Chretien Astrograph with 0.8mm focal reducer.Exposure settings are 20 x 180 seconds @ ISO 1600 captured in Nebulosity and aligned and stacked. Processing in Images Plus and Photoshop CS5.

Where to find The Double Cluster

The Double Cluster in Perseus is a truly magnificent sight. This pair of open clusters which can be viewed in the same field of view can just be seen with the naked eye in good conditions. Cassiopeia is a good pointer to the object as shown in this diagram. Watch that you are using the right orientation as Cassioppiea is seen at different angles depending on the time of night or date of year you are viewing it. (As it is a W shape it can confuse things! )