Messier Index/M50
Appearance
Messier 50 | |
---|---|
Observation data (w:J2000 epoch) | |
Right ascension | 07h 03.2m |
Declination | −08° 20′ |
Distance | 3.2 kly (1 kpc) |
Apparent magnitude (V) | 5.9 |
Apparent dimensions (V) | 16.0′ |
Other designations | NGC 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.