Cr399 — Coathanger
Other in Vulpecula
About
The Coathanger, a row of about ten stars of 5th to 7th magnitude with a hook above them, spanning roughly 60′ in Vulpecula. Gaia-era data show the stars lie at very different distances, from about 235 to 1,735 light-years, so it is a chance alignment rather than a true cluster.
Imaging tips
- At 400–670 mm on APS-C the asterism fills a third to half of the frame; on a full-frame body use 620–1,030 mm.
- The ten main stars are 5th to 7th magnitude, so short subs reach them easily; the asterism is also a binocular object, which shows how wide a field it needs.
- Nearby NGC 6802, a true but distant cluster, lies east of the asterism and gives a pleasing second target in a wider field.
- Best placed in June and July.
Facts
- Size
- 60′
- Magnitude
- 3.6
- Coordinates
- RA 19h 26.0m, Dec +20° 11′
- Framing, APS-C
- 400–670 mm
- Framing, full frame
- 620–1030 mm
- Best months
- Jun, Jul
- Peak altitude
- 60° from 50°N, 75° from 35°N