The Andromeda Galaxy is about 2.5 million light-years away, yet you can spot it without a telescope. During the week of October 12–18, autumn skies offer Northern Hemisphere observers a chance to find our closest large galactic neighbour.
Expect a faint patch of light rather than the colourful spiral seen in photographs. NASA describes Andromeda as visible to the unaided eye from locations with dark skies. Escaping streetlights matters far more than owning expensive equipment.
