M23 · open cluster

Messier 23

Messier 23, also known as NGC 6494, is an open cluster of stars in the northwest of the southern constellation of Sagittarius.

RA17h 57m 04sDec−18° 59' 07"

Image: Chuck Ayoub. CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Identity & coordinates

Identification

Primary designation: M23
All designations: M23 · NGC 6494
Object type: Open Cluster
Constellation: Sagittarius
Best viewing: Summer

Coordinates & physical

Right ascension (J2000): 17h 57m 04s
Declination (J2000): −18° 59' 07"
Apparent magnitude (V): —
Distance: —

III

Visibility tonight

The science

Messier 23, also known as NGC 6494, is an open cluster of stars in the northwest of the southern constellation of Sagittarius. It was discovered by Charles Messier in 1764. It can be found in good conditions with binoculars or a modestly sized telescope. It is in front of "an extensive gas and dust network", which there may be no inter-association. It is within 5° the sun's position so can be occulted by the moon.

Summary adapted from Wikipedia · CC-BY-SA-4.0