M34 · open cluster

Messier 34

Messier 34 is a large and relatively near open cluster in Perseus.

RA02h 42m 07sDec+42° 44' 46"

Image: REU program/NOIRLab/ NSF /AURA. CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Identity & coordinates

Identification

Primary designation: M34
All designations: M34 · NGC 1039
Object type: Open Cluster
Constellation: Perseus
Best viewing: Autumn · Winter

Coordinates & physical

Right ascension (J2000): 02h 42m 07s
Declination (J2000): +42° 44' 46"
Apparent magnitude (V): —
Distance: —

III

Visibility tonight

The science

Messier 34 is a large and relatively near open cluster in Perseus. It was probably discovered by Giovanni Batista Hodierna before 1654 and included by Charles Messier in his catalog of comet-like objects in 1764. Messier described it as, "A cluster of small stars a little below the parallel of γ (Andromedae). In an ordinary telescope of 3 feet one can distinguish the stars."

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