An astronomical puzzle

Puzzle

Here is an astronomical puzzle which is supposed to show the erratic path of the comet Heclai. Commencing with the small white star, show the shortest possible course through the exact center of all of the black stars so as to mark them all off and end with the big star. In how few moves, in straight lines, could the comet Heclai destroy the entire constellation of sixty-two stars, beginning from and ending with the white stars?

Answer

The astronomical puzzle solves by 14 straight lines.

References

• Loyd, Sam [1914]. in Loyd, Sam, Jr.: Sam Loyd's Cyclopedia of 5000 Puzzles Tricks and Conundrums (in English). New York: Lamb Publishing company, page 20.