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Messier 52 |
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 | The open cluster M52, or NGC7654, in the constellation Cassiopeia. The conspicuous red star a little right of center does not belong to the cluster, which is about 7000 light-years away. In a 8-inch scope at 188X is about the most power you can use and still keep it entirely within the field of view. The open cluster has a bright star near one end. The other stars are all at least one magnitude fainter. On the opposite end of the cluster, there's a straight little string of 10-12 stars running parallel to the bright star. The cluster is generally round in shape, with 40-50 stars visible. 81X offers a nice overview of the cluster, nicely framed in the eyepiece. |
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| You can find more information about this Messier object by visiting: SEDS - The Messier Catalog. |
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M52 NGC 7654 Other description: Open cluster dense. Constellation: Cassiopeia Dreyer description: Cluster, large, rich in stars, much compressed middle, round, stars of magnitude 9 to 13; = M52. Magnitude: 6.9 RA: 23h 24m 21.1s Dec: +61°36'03" RA: 23h 24m 12.0s Dec: +61°35'00" (Epoch 2000) Azm: 334°18'44" Alt: +26°28'39" Always above horizon. Transit: 06:11 Size:13.0' |