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Messier catalogue

/ ˈmɛsɪeɪ /

noun

  1. astronomy a catalogue of 103 nonstellar objects, such as nebulae and galaxies, prepared in 1781–86. An object is referred to by its number in this catalogue, for example the Andromeda Galaxy is referred to as M 31
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of Messier catalogue1

C18: named after Charles Messier (1730–1817), French astronomer

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Messier catalogMessier number