The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word NEBULA
N
E
B
U
L
A
More clues leading to the result NEBULA
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "astronomical object" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case astronomical object = nebula.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does NEBULA mean?
NEBULA noun- A cloud in outer space consisting of gas or dust (e.g. a cloud formed after a star explodes).
- A white spot or slight opacity of the cornea.
- A cloudy appearance in the urine