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Messier Index/M50

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Messier 50
Observation data (w:J2000 epoch)
Right ascension07h 03.2m
Declination−08° 20′
Distance3.2 kly (1 kpc)
Apparent magnitude (V)5.9
Apparent dimensions (V)16.0′
Other designationsNGC 2323

Messier 50 (also known as M 50 or NGC 2323) is an w:open cluster in the w:constellation w:Monoceros. It was perhaps discovered by G. D. Cassini before w:1711 and independently discovered by w:Charles Messier in w:1772. M50 is at a distance of about 3,000 w:light-years away from w:Earth. It is described as a 'heart-shaped' figure.