Locate Cancer between Gemini and Leo, then search for M44, also called Praesepe. Cancer’s faint constellation stars can be difficult in a lit-up sky. Under better conditions, binoculars turn the cluster’s cloudy naked-eye patch into scattered points.

It edges the Double Cluster for its generous open pattern, but Andromeda adds the stronger galaxy experience. The faint landmarks cost it a higher rank. If finding Cancer is frustrating, use a local map rather than searching randomly through bright sky.

Sources: NASA.

Image: Taavi Niittee · CC0. Resized and JPEG compressed; original license retained.