M50 · open cluster

Messier 50

Messier 50 or M 50, also known as NGC 2323 or the Heart-shaped Cluster, is an open cluster of stars in the constellation Monoceros.

RA07h 02m 40sDec−08° 21' 50"

Image: Chuck Ayoub. CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Identity & coordinates

Identification

Primary designation: M50
All designations: M50 · NGC 2323
Object type: Open Cluster
Constellation: Monoceros
Best viewing: Winter

Coordinates & physical

Right ascension (J2000): 07h 02m 40s
Declination (J2000): −08° 21' 50"
Apparent magnitude (V): —
Distance: —

III

Visibility tonight

The science

Messier 50 or M 50, also known as NGC 2323 or the Heart-shaped Cluster, is an open cluster of stars in the constellation Monoceros. It was recorded by G. D. Cassini before 1711 and independently discovered by Charles Messier in 1772 while observing Biela's Comet. It is sometimes described as a 'heart-shaped' figure or a blunt arrowhead.

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