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Messier Index/M11

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Wild Duck Cluster
The Wild Duck Cluster (M11-NGC 6705)
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)
ConstellationScutum
Right ascension18h 51.1m
Declination−06° 16′
Distance6,200 ly (1,900 pc)
Apparent magnitude (V)6.3
Apparent dimensions (V)14.0′
Other designationsMessier 11, NGC 6705

The Wild Duck Cluster (also known as Messier 11, or NGC 6705) is an w:open cluster in the w:constellation w:Scutum. It was discovered by w:Gottfried Kirch in 1681. w:Charles Messier included it in his catalogue in 1764.

The Wild Duck Cluster is one of the richest and most compact of the known open clusters, containing about 2900 w:stars. Its age has been estimated to about 220 million years. Its name derives from the brighter stars forming a triangle which could represent a flying flock of w:ducks.