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Messier 54 |
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 | M54 is a globular cluster in the constellation Sagittarius. It is bright but small, and its core is not resolved here. M54 was always thought to be some 60000 light-years away, but there is now a claim that it is actually part of an extragalactic system, a member of the Local Group called the Sagittarius Dwarf, which would move it out to nearly 90000 light-years. In a 8-inch scope, this cluster has a bright, stellar core. 122X offers the best view. It has a patchwork appearance, but individual stars couldn't be resolved. It does have a nice, round shape to it. More aperture would help. |
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| You can find more information about this Messier object by visiting: SEDS - The Messier Catalog. |
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M54 NGC 6715 Other description: Globular cluster mottled. Constellation: Sagittarius Dreyer description: Globular cluster, very bright, large, round, gradually, abruptly much brighter middle, well resolved, stars of magnitude 15; = M54. Magnitude: 7.7 RA: 18h 55m 22.9s Dec: -30°28'44" RA: 18h 55m 06.0s Dec: -30°29'00" (Epoch 2000) Azm: 36°04'43" Alt: -71°25'32" Rise: 22:06 Transit: 01:42 Set: 05:15 Size: 9.1' |