M46 - NGC 2437 - Open Cluster
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Messier 46 (M46) is an Open Cluster of stars estimated to contain about 500 members. This open cluster is located in the constellation Puppis. It is very close to another open cluster, M47 (1 degree), and they are often viewed together. Images of M46 also contain a planetary nebula near its edge (NGC 2438), but this nebula is believed to be in the foreground and is not physically part of the open cluster. It is about 5,400 light years from earth and is approximately 26 light years in diameter. It was discovered by Charles Messier in 1771.
Location Data
Constellation: Puppis
Right ascension: 7h 41.8m
Declination: -14° 49′
Distance: 5,400 ly
Size: 26 ly
Observation Data
Apparent magnitude: 6.1
Apparent size: 27.0' arcmins
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The images With Blue Borders were taken using equipment provided by the MAS Observatory Click on the Image to View It Full Size |
