Cr97
Open Cluster in Monoceros
About
A compact open cluster in Monoceros, about 2,050 light-years away. A photometric study found 24 of 29 measured stars to be possible members, with no dimming from interstellar dust and an age between 100 and 590 million years.
Imaging tips
- Only 15′ across, so a long focal length is needed: 1,620–2,690 mm on APS-C (2,480–4,130 mm full frame).
- Surface brightness is 21 mag/arcsec², not faint, and the stars are the subject, so broadband is the right choice.
- The study found no interstellar extinction toward the cluster, so its star colours should not be dimmed by dust.
- Best in December and January; it peaks near 46° altitude from 50°N.
Facts
- Size
- 15′
- Magnitude
- 6.5
- Coordinates
- RA 6h 31.3m, Dec +5° 55′
- Framing, APS-C
- 1620–2690 mm
- Framing, full frame
- 2480–4130 mm
- Best months
- Jan, Dec
- Peak altitude
- 46° from 50°N, 61° from 35°N