What famous catalog of deep-sky objects, compiled by a French astronomer in the 1700s, contains 110 entries?

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Charles Messier compiled his catalog not because he was interested in these objects, but to avoid confusing them with comets, which were his true passion. Ironically, the Messier catalog became one of the most important references in amateur astronomy, and completing all 110 objects is a popular observing challenge. Many stargazing(Deals) clubs hold annual Messier marathons in March, when all 110 objects can theoretically be seen in a single night.

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