(Yet Another) Messier Catalogue

Abstract

The following page lists the deep-sky objects from Charles Messier's famous catalogue, together with a few summary details and, where known, observational notes. Although Messier observed from the northern hemisphere, so most of his catalogue objects are northerly, greater attention is here given over to those objects visible from mid latitudes in the southern hemisphere (~40S).

Keywords: astronomy, Messier, deep sky, nebula, cluster

Introduction

In August 1758, Charles Messier (1730 – 1817) stumbled upon the Crab Nebula, a faint patch of nebulosity in Taurus. The Crab was not what Messier was seeking: he was an avid comet hunter, and the various nebulae and clusters he encountered in his searches were only distractions to him because they often appeared to be comets viewed through the optical instruments of his day.

Messier sought to eliminate confusion by recording the whereabouts of the Crab and other nebulae in a catalogue, which eventually enumerated some 110 objects. The catalogue was published in a series of lists to the French Academy.

The catalogue includes a small number of duplicate or erroneous listings: M40 and M73 are asterisms rather than nebulae or clusters, M102 is a duplicate observation of M101, and there is nothing to be found at the location given for M91: a spiral galaxy (NGC 4548) in Coma Berenices is the widely accepted candidate for this missing object.

M1

Synopsis: NGC 1952, also known as the Crab Nebula; nebula; located in Taurus, near Zeta Tauri; R.A. 05:34.5, dec. +22:01; magnitude 16; distance 1,800 pc (6,000 light years).

Remarks: This celebrated object is believed to be the explosion shell of a supernova observed from earth in 1054. The nova became brighter than Venus and was visible in daylight for three weeks. The star remained above magnitude 6 for more than a year. Much of the nebula appears bluish as a result of electrons spiralling in the intense magnetic field. A magnitude 16 pulsar at the centre of the nebula is probably the remnant of the star which exploded.

Observation: Regrettably, M1 is a disappointing object in small telescopes, appearing as a faint elliptical wisp. Very low to the horizon when viewed from New Zealand.

M2

Synopsis: NGC 7089; globular cluster; located in Aquarius, about 5 degrees north of Beta Aquarii; R.A. 21:33.5, dec. -00:49; magnitude 6.5; distance 15,300 pc (50,000 light years).

Remarks: A rich and highly concentrated globular cluster, with an integrated absolute magnitude around -9.5, equivalent to about 525,000 suns. The cluster has an apparent diameter of about 10' which corresponds to 150 light years at a distance of about 50,000 light years.

Observation: Easily visible in binoculars, although it can be mistaken for a star at first sight. M2 requires a large aperture (at least 250 mm) to resolve.

M3

Synopsis: NGC 5272; globular cluster; nominally located in Canes Venatici, midway between Alpha Canum Venaticorum and Alpha Bootis (Arcturus).; R.A. 13:39.9, dec. +28:38; magnitude 6.4; distance 13,800 pc (45,000 light years).

Remarks: Regarded as one of the finest globular clusters visible in the northern skies, lying at 45,000 light years.

Observation: Appears as a hazy star in binoculars or small telescopes. 100 mm apertures will resolve individual stars in the outer halo.

M4

Synopsis: NGC 6121; globular cluster; located in Scorpius, near Alpha Scorpii (Antares); R.A. 16:23.6, dec. -26:32; magnitude 5.9; distance 1,900 pc (6,200 light years).

Remarks: A large and relatively loosely clustered globular cluster with a noticeable bar of stars across the centre and lacking a strong central concentration. It has a visual diameter of 14' and a photographic diameter of about 23' which corresponds to 40 light years. M4 is one of the closest globular clusters to the earth, at a distance of 6200 light years.

Observation: Visible in 7 x 50 mm binoculars under dark skies as a large faint disk, brightening slightly towards the centre but lacking a bright core like that of Omega Centauri. However, it is unmistakeable. 100 mm aperture will begin to resolve individual stars and reveal the central bar.

M5

Synopsis: NGC 5904; globular cluster; located in Serpens Caput, near 5 Serpentis; R.A. 15:18.6, dec. +02:05; magnitude 5.8; distance 8,300 pc (27,000 light years).

Remarks: A fine globular cluster with a brilliant condensed centre and outer regions appearing as radiating chains, at 27,000 light years. One of the three or four finest globulars visible from the northern hemisphere.

Observation: Visible in binoculars or small telescopes. 100 mm aperture will reveal the condensed centre and apparent radiating chains of stars in the outer regions.

M6

Synopsis: NGC 6405, Butterfly Cluster; open cluster; nominally located in Scorpius, near 45 Ophiuchi; R.A. 17:40.1, dec. -32:13; magnitude 4.2; distance 500 pc (1,500 light years).

Remarks: A scattering of around 50 to 80 stars with the appearance of being arranged in radiating chains. It has a visual diameter of 26' which corresponds to 11 light years at 1500 light years distance. The brightest star in the cluster is an irregularly variable yellow/red giant, BM Scorpii, which varies between magnitudes 6 and 8 over about 850 days. The estimated age of the cluster is around 40 million years.

Observation: M6 is easily seen in binoculars. M6 and M7 can be seen in the same field.

M7

Synopsis: NGC 6475; open cluster; located in Scorpius, near G Scorpii; R.A. 17:53.9, dec. -34:49; magnitude 3.3; distance 200 pc (800 light years).

Remarks: A large brilliant cluster of around 50 stars which appear to be arranged in chains. M7 has a visual diameter of about 50' which translates to 12 light years at its distance of 800 light years. Its estimated age is 70 million years.

Observation: M7 is easily resolved in binoculars and almost any small telescope. M6 and M7 can be seen in the same field.

M8

Synopsis: NGC 6530/NGC 6523, usually known as the Lagoon Nebula; open cluster/nebula; located in Sagittarius, near 7 Sagittarii.; R.A. 18:08.3, dec. -24:23; magnitude 4.6; distance 1,500 pc (5,000 light years).

Remarks: An open cluster of about 25 magnitude 7 or fainter stars, recently formed from the surrounding gas in the eastern half of a diffuse nebula which long exposure photographs show coloured red. The western half, is dominated by only two main stars, the brighter of which is 9 Sagittarii (magnitude 6). It is 5000 light years distant and subtends 1o of arc.

Observation: The nebula is reputedly visible to the naked eye (I can't see it) and readily seen in binoculars. Small aperture telescopes show a dark rift down the centre of the nebula which appears milky white to the eye (cf. long exposure photographs, in which it appears red).

M9

Synopsis: NGC 6333; globular cluster; located in Ophiuchus, between Eta and Xi Ophiuchi.; R.A. 17:19.2, dec. -18:31; magnitude 7.9; distance 7,500 pc (24,450 light years).

M10

Synopsis: NGC 6254; globular cluster; located in Ophiuchus, near 30 Ophiuchi; R.A. 16:57.1, dec. -04:06; magnitude 6.6; distance 5,800 pc (19,000 light years).

Remarks: A globular cluster at 19,000 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars and 150 mm aperture will begin to resolve individual stars.

M11

Synopsis: NGC 6705, also known as the Wild Duck Cluster; open cluster; located in Scutum, near Beta Scuti; R.A. 18:51.1, dec. -06:16; magnitude 5.8; distance 1,700 pc (5,700 light years).

Remarks: A spectacular cluster of around 200 stars arranged in a fan shape, at a distance of 5700 light years. It subtends about 10' of arc. The brightest star in the cluster is magnitude 8.

Observation: Visible in binoculars as a misty patch

M12

Synopsis: NGC 6218; globular cluster; located in Ophiuchus, near 21 Ophiuchi; R.A. 16:47.2, dec. -01:57; magnitude 6.6; distance 5,800 pc (19,000 light years).

Remarks: A globular cluster at a little under 19,000 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars and 150 mm aperture will begin to resolve individual stars.

M13

Synopsis: NGC 6205; globular cluster; located in Hercules, between Eta and Zeta Herculis; R.A. 16:41.7, dec. +36:28; magnitude 5.9; distance 6,900 pc (22,500 light years).

Remarks: A fine globular cluster containing around 300,000 stars and at least 100 light years in diameter. It lies at a distance of 22,500 light years.

Observation: M13 in Hercules is the showpiece globular of the northern hemisphere, ?????? although it may be seen from New Zealand around July ?????. It is visible to the naked eye and unmistakable in binoculars. Small telescopes will begin to resolve individual stars.

M14

Synopsis: NGC 6402; globular cluster; located in Ophiuchus, near 47 Ophiuchi; R.A. 17:37.6, dec. -03:15; magnitude 7.6; distance 7,100 pc (23,000 light years).

M15

Synopsis: NGC 7078; globular cluster; located in Pegasus, near epsilon Pegasi; R.A. 21:30.0, dec. +12:10; magnitude 6.3; distance 15,300 pc (50,000 light years).

Remarks: A fine bright globular cluster at 50,000 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars. 150 mm aperture will begin to resolve individual stars in the outer regions.

M16

Synopsis: NGC 6611, the Eagle Nebula and associated cluster; open cluster/nebula; nominally located in Serpens Cauda, near Gamma Scuti; R.A. 18:18.8, dec. -13:47; magnitude 8; distance 2,500 pc (8,000 light years).

Remarks: An irregular cluster of 50 stars at 8000 light years, covering about 30' (0.5o) of arc. The cluster is embedded in a faint nebula known as the Eagle.

Observation: Binoculars or small telescopes easily show the star cluster. The nebula may be faintly visible in larger telescopes but is well seen only in long exposure photographs.

M17

Synopsis: NGC 6618, usually known as the Omega, Swan, or Horseshoe Nebula; open cluster/nebula; nominally located in Sagittarius, near Gamma Scutii.; R.A. 18:20.8, dec. -16:11; magnitude 6.0; distance 1,800 pc (5,868 light years).

Remarks: A small open cluster embedded in a diffuse nebula, 5000 to 6000 light years distant.

Observation: The nebula is visible in binoculars. Small aperture telescopes show an elongated smudge

M18

Synopsis: NGC 6613; open cluster; located in Sagittarius, between Mu Sagittarii and Gamma Scutii.; R.A. 18:19.9, dec. -17:08; magnitude 6.9; distance 1,800 pc (6,000 light years).

Remarks: A small open cluster of 20 or so magnitude 8 and fainter stars.

M19

Synopsis: NGC 6273; globular cluster; located in Ophiuchus, near the border with Scorpius, about seven degrees east of Antares; R.A. 17:02.6, dec. -26:16; magnitude 7.1; distance 6,100 pc (20,000 light years).

Observation: The noticably oblate shape is observable even in small telescopes.

M20

Synopsis: NGC 6514, usually known as the Trifid Nebula; nebula; located in Sagittarius, near 4 Sagittarii; R.A. 18:02.6, dec. -23:02; magnitude 7.6; distance 700 pc (2,200 light years).

Remarks: A faint diffuse nebula surrounding HN 40, a double star with magnitude 7 and 8 components, which have recently condensed from the surrounding gas. In the larger part of the nebula, centred upon HN 40, the gas glows red from the radiation of new born stars

Observation: another part of the nebula glows blue owing to starlight reflection from dust grains. M20 is believed to be somewhat further than 5000 light years distant.

M21

Synopsis: NGC 6531; open cluster; located in Sagittarius, between 4 Sagittarii and Mu Sagittarii; R.A. 18:04.6, dec. -22:30; magnitude 5.9; distance 900 pc (3,000 light years).

Remarks: A loose cluster of about 50 stars, between magnitudes 8 and 12.

M22

Synopsis: NGC 6656; globular cluster; located in Sagittarius, near lambda Sagittarii.; R.A. 18:36.4, dec. -23:54; magnitude 5.1; distance 3,100 pc (10,000 light years).

Remarks: See above.

M23

Synopsis: NGC 6494; open cluster; located in Sagittarius, between Mu Sagittarii and Xi Serpentis; R.A. 17:56.8, dec. -19:01; magnitude 5.5; distance 1,400 pc (4,500 light years).

Remarks: A widespread, elongated cluster of about 120-150 magnitude 9 stars, some apparently arranged in arcs, at 4500 light years distance.

Observation: Readily seen in binoculars and small telescopes.

M24

Synopsis: NGC 6603; bright patch of the Milky Way; located in Sagittarius, near Mu Sagittarii.; R.A. 18:16.9, dec. -18:29; magnitude 4.5; distance unknown.

Remarks: A small cluster of about 50 stars appearing against a background star field near the galactic centre.

Observation: Readily seen in binoculars and small telescopes.

M25

Synopsis: IC 4725; open cluster; located in Sagittarius, near 21 Sagittarii; R.A. 18:31.6, dec. -19:15; magnitude 4.6; distance 600 pc (1,800 light years).

Remarks: A scattered cluster of about 50 stars, magnitude 6 and fainter, and including the Cepheid variable U Sagittarii which varies between magnitudes 6.3 and 7.1 every 6 days 18 hours. M25 lies at a distance of 1800 light years.

M26

Synopsis: NGC 6694; open cluster; located in Scutum, near Delta Scuti; R.A. 18:42.5, dec. -09:27; magnitude 8.0; distance 1,600 pc (5,216 light years).

M27

Synopsis: NGC 2442, usually known as the Dumbell Nebula; planetary nebula; located in Vulpecula, between 12 and 17 Vulpeculae; R.A. 19:59.6, dec. +22:43; magnitude 7.6; distance 400 pc (1,250 light years).

Remarks: A bright planetary nebula subtending about 7' of arc. M27 lies at 1250 light years distance.

Observation: The nebula is one of the easiest to see with amateur equipment. It is visible in binoculars although better seen in a telescope. To the eye it appears as a misty green glow (cf. blue and pink in long exposure photographs.

M28

Synopsis: NGC 6626; globular cluster; located in Sagittarius, near Lambda Sagittarii; R.A. 18:24.5, dec. -24:52; magnitude 6.9; distance 4,600 pc (15,000 light years).

M29

Synopsis: NGC 6913; open cluster; located in Cygnus, two degrees south of Gamma Cygni; R.A. 20:23.9, dec. +38:32; magnitude 6.6; distance 2,200 pc (7,200 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of about 50 stars.

M30

Synopsis: NGC 7099; globular cluster; located in Capricornus, near Zeta Capricorni; R.A. 21:40.4, dec. -23:11; magnitude 7.5; distance 12,300 pc (40,000 light years).

Remarks: A globular cluster with noticably condensed centre and radiating chains of stars, at 40,000 light years.

M31

Synopsis: NGC 224, ususally known as the Great Andromeda Galaxy; galaxy (Sb); located in Andromeda, near Nu Andromedae; R.A. 00:42.7, dec. +41:16; magnitude 3.5; distance 674,800 pc (2,200,000 light years).

Remarks: M31 is the most distant object visible to the unaided eye. It is 2.2 million light years away and has a diameter of at least 150,000 light years. The spiral arms are clearly visible on photographs made with even small telescopes and, with the largest telescopes, it is possible to distinguish single stars, including variable stars, star clusters, and diffuse nebulae. M31 has two companion galaxies, M32 and NGC205, and another galaxy, M33, may be found nearby between Andromeda and Triangulum. All are members with our own galaxy of the Local Group.

Observation: M31 is visible to the naked eye, binoculars, or any telescope under low power, from the northern hemisphere. From the latitude of New Zealand, however, it lies low on the horizon making it a difficult and unspectacular object in amateur instruments. It subtends approximately 3 degrees diameter and high power tends to diminish contrast, rendering the fainter parts invisible.

M32

Synopsis: NGC 221; galaxy (E2); located in Andromeda, near Nu Andromedae; R.A. 00:42.7, dec. +40:52; magnitude 8.2; distance 750,000 pc (2,445,000 light years).

Remarks: A companion galaxy to M31

Observation: visible in small telescopes as a fuzzy, star-like glow, 0.5 degrees south of the core of M31.

M33

Synopsis: NGC 598, the Pinwheel Galaxy; galaxy (Sc); nominally located in Triangulum, between Alpha Trianguli and Tau Piscium; R.A. 01:33.9, dec. +30:39; magnitude 5.7; distance 1,104,300 pc (3,600,000 light years).

Remarks: A face-on spiral galaxy which is a member of the local group of galaxies. It subtends about 0.5 degrees and lies at a distance of about 3.6 million light years.

Observation: Although large, M33 has a very low surface brightness making it difficult to observe. It is best seen with binoculars or telescopes at low power. The nucleus appears diffuse

M34

Synopsis: NGC 1039; open cluster; nominally located in Perseus, on the border with Andromeda, between 12 and 14 Persei; R.A. 02:42.0, dec. +42:47; magnitude 5.2; distance 400 pc (1,400 light years).

Remarks: A small open cluster of around 60 stars at 1400 light years.

Observation: A bright cluster at the limit of naked eye visibility, containing about 80 stars spread over about 0.5 degrees. Binoculars will just resolve it into stars, but it is better seen with a telescope.

M35

Synopsis: NGC 2168; open cluster; located in Gemini, near 1 Geminorum; R.A. 06:08.9, dec. +24:20; magnitude 5.1; distance 800 pc (2,600 light years).

Remarks: A large, bright open cluster subtending about 0.5 degrees and comprising up to 200 stars at 2600 light years.

Observation: An outstanding object, visible to the naked eye or in binoculars. Telescopes under low power show the stars to be arranged in curving chains. A background object is NGC 2158, a very rich but faint star cluster requiring apertures over 100 mm.

M36

Synopsis: NGC 1960; open cluster; located in Auriga, near Phi Aurigae; R.A. 05:36.1, dec. +34:08; magnitude 6.0; distance 1,200 pc (3,800 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of about 60 stars at 3800 light years.

Observation: A small, bright cluster, visible in binoculars and resolvable into stars with a small telescope.

M37

Synopsis: NGC 2099; open cluster; located in Auriga, between Gamma Aurigae (= Beta Tauri, El Nath) and theta Aurigae; R.A. 05:52.4, dec. +32:33; magnitude 5.6; distance 1,400 pc (4,600 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of about 150 stars.

Observation: A rich cluster, visible as a hazy unresolved patch in binoculars and small apertures. 100 mm apertures will resolve M37 into stars, revealing a brighter orange star at the centre.

M38

Synopsis: NGC 1912; open cluster; located in Auriga, near Phi Aurigae; R.A. 05:28.7, dec. +35:50; magnitude 6.4; distance 1,100 pc (3,600 light years).

Remarks: A large scattered cluster of 100 or more stars at 3600 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars, with a noticeable cross shape when viewed through binoculars.

M39

Synopsis: NGC 7092; open cluster; located in Cygnus, near 71 Cygni; R.A. 21:32.2, dec. +48:26; magnitude 4.6; distance 200 pc (800 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of 20 to 30 fairly bright stars, at 800 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars.

M40

Synopsis: Winnecke 4; double star; located in Ursa Major, near 70 Ursae Majoris; R.A. 12:20.0, dec. +58:22; magnitude 9.0 & 9.3; distance unknown.

M41

Synopsis: NGC 2287; open cluster; located in Canis Major, near Pi Canis Majoris; R.A. 06:46.0, dec. -20:44; magnitude 4.5; distance 800 pc (2,500 light years).

Remarks: A large bright cluster of about 50 stars, subtending 0.5 degrees. The brightest star in the group is a magnitude 7 orange giant. M41 lies at 2500 light years.

Observation: Visible to the naked eye only under the best conditions, but readily seen in binoculars or in a telescope, when the stars appear grouped in bunches and chains.

M42

Synopsis: NGC 1976, usually known as the Orion Nebula; emission nebula; located in Orion, near theta Orionis (a multiple star, usually known as the Trapezium); R.A. 05:35.4, dec. -05:27; magnitude 5; distance 300 pc (1,000 light years).

Remarks: A large star forming cloud of dust and gas, 15 light years in diameter, subtending 1 degree. At the centre of the nebula are the four stars known as theta Orionis or, more commonly, the Trapezium. The radiation emitted by the brightest of these excites the cloud, causing it to shine. Behind the emission nebula is an even larger dark cloud, in which stars are forming. M42/M43 is estimated to contain sufficient matter to form 10,000 stars

Observation: it will eventually form a star cluster. M42 lies at 1300 light years.

M43

Synopsis: NGC 1982; emission nebula; located in Orion, near theta Orionis (a multiple star, usually known as the Trapezium); R.A. 05:35.6, dec. -05:16; magnitude 7; distance 300 pc (1,000 light years).

Remarks: Actually a part of the same dust and gas cloud as M42, M43 is a small emission nebula centred on a magnitude 9 star.

M44

Synopsis: NGC 2632, usually known as Praesepe or the Beehive cluster; open cluster; located in Cancer, within the triangle formed by delta, Gamma and eta Cnc; R.A. 08:40.1, dec. +19:59; magnitude 3.1; distance 200 pc (500 light years).

M45

Synopsis: NGC 1432/5, usually known as the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters, Subaru to the Japanese; open cluster; located in Taurus, around and including Eta Tauri; R.A. 03:47.0, dec. +24:07; magnitude 1.2; distance 100 pc (415 light years).

Remarks: A very young open cluster of about 300 stars, including many blue giants, which began forming within the past 50 million years. The youngest members may be as young as 2 million years. The brightest star in the group is eta Tauri, also known as Alcyone, at magnitude 2.9. BU Tauri, also known as Pleione is a shell star which throws off rings of gas at irregular intervals, causing it to fluctuate unpredictably between magnitudes 5.0 and 5.5. A dust cloud which surrounds the stars, forming a faint reflection (?) nebula around the brightest stars, is thought (? see S&T or Astronomy 1993?) to have moved into the cluster recently, rather than being the remnant of the star forming cloud (see also Malin). M45 subtends about 1 degree, and lies at 415 light years.

Observation: Approximately five to nine stars are visible to the naked eye, depending upon the conditions and the observers eyesight. Dozens are visible in binoculars. In the best conditions, binoculars will also reveal the brightest part of the nebula, around 23 Tauri, also known as Merope. Map in Rukl 1979, p. 131.

M46

Synopsis: NGC 2437; open cluster; located in Puppis, near 9 Puppis; R.A. 07:41.8, dec. -14:49; magnitude 6.1; distance 1,800 pc (6,000 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of about 150 faint stars at 6000 light years. On the north side of the cluster lies the foreground object NGC 2438, a magnitude 11 planetary nebula.

M47

Synopsis: NGC 2422; open cluster; located in Puppis, between 9 Puppis and Gamma Canis Majoris; R.A. 07:36.6, dec. -14:30; magnitude 4.4; distance 1,200 pc (3,800 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of about 30 stars at 3800 light years.

Observation: Visible to the naked eye.

M48

Synopsis: NGC 2548; open cluster; nominally located in Hydra, near Zeta Monocerotis; R.A. 08:13.8, dec. -05:48; magnitude 5.8; distance 900 pc (3,000 light years).

Remarks: A somewhat triangular shaped cluster of about 80 stars. M48 subtends 0.5 degrees and lies at 3000 light years.

Observation: Under the best conditions, M48 is a naked eye object. It is easily seen in binoculars or a telescope under low power.

M49

Synopsis: NGC 4472; galaxy (E4); located in Virgo, between 31 and o Virginis; R.A. 12:29.8, dec. +08:00; magnitude 8.4; distance 21,472,400 pc (70,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A giant elliptical member of the Virgo galaxy cluster.

Observation: Visible in 75 mm apertures, under low power.

M50

Synopsis: NGC 2323; open cluster; located in Monoceros, between 20 Monocerotis and theta Canis Majoris; R.A. 07:03.2, dec. +08:20; magnitude 5.9; distance 800 pc (2,600 light years).

Remarks: A large cluster of about 80 to 100 stars, at 2600 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars, but apertures of 100 mm or greater are required to resolve M50 into stars, with a red star at the centre.

M51

Synopsis: NGC 5194, usually known as the Whirlpool Galaxy; galaxy (Sc); nominally located in Canes Venatici, a few degrees from Eta Ursae Majoris; R.A. 13:29.9, dec. +47:12; magnitude 8.4; distance 4,294,500 pc (14,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A face on spiral with an irregular companion galaxy, NGC 5195, at the end of one arm, lying at a distance of 14 million light years.

Observation: Disappointing in small telescopes, appearing as a faint milky radiance surrounding two star-like nuclei. Requires very dark conditions.

M52

Synopsis: NGC 7654; open cluster; located in Cassiopeia, near 4 Cassiopeiae; R.A. 23:24.2, dec. +61:35; magnitude 6.9; distance 1,200 pc (3,800 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of about 100 or so stars at 3800 light years.

Observation: Visible as a misty patch in binoculars and resolvable into stars with apertures above 75 mm. The cluster is kidney-shaped, with a prominent yellow-orange star at one edge.

M53

Synopsis: NGC 5024; globular cluster; located in Coma Berenices, about 1 degree northeast of Alpha Comae; R.A. 13:12.9, dec. +18:10; magnitude 7.7; distance 19,900 pc (65,000 light years).

Remarks: A faint globular cluster at 65,000 light years.

Observation: Visible in small telescopes as a rounded hazy patch.

M54

Synopsis: NGC 6715; globular cluster; located in Sagittarius, near Zeta Sagittarii; R.A. 18:55.1, dec. -30:09; magnitude 7.7; distance 15,300 pc (50,000 light years).

M55

Synopsis: NGC 6809; globular cluster; located in Sagittarius, about 7 degrees east of Zeta Sagittari; R.A. 19:40.0, dec. -30:58; magnitude 6.9; distance 6,100 pc (20,000 light years).

Remarks: A nebulous globular cluster showing little concentration towards the centre.

Observation: Visible in binoculars

M56

Synopsis: NGC 6779; globular cluster; located in Lyra, between Gamma Lyrae and Beta Cygni; R.A. 19:16.6, dec. +30:11; magnitude 8.2; distance 12,300 pc (40,000 light years).

M57

Synopsis: NGC 6720, usually known as the Ring Nebula; planetary nebula; located in Lyra, between Beta and Gamma Lyrae; R.A. 18:53.6, dec. +32:02; magnitude 9.7; distance 1,300 pc (4,100 light years).

Remarks: One of the brightest planetary nebulae, appearing larger than Jupiter. It lies at 4100 light years.

Observation: Small telescopes show a noticeably elliptical, misty disk. Larger apertures are required to see the central hole. Long exposure photography is required to observe any detail.

M58

Synopsis: NGC 4579; galaxy (Sb); located in Virgo, forming an approximate triangle with Rho and 34 Virginis; R.A. 12:37.7, dec. +11:49; magnitude 9.8; distance 21,472,400 pc (70,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A spiral galaxy.

Observation: M58 has a noticeably bright core.

M59

Synopsis: NGC 4621; galaxy (E3); located in Virgo, near 34 Virginis; R.A. 12:42.0, dec. +11:39; magnitude 9.8; distance unknown.

Remarks: An elliptical galaxy.

M60

Synopsis: NGC 4649; galaxy (E1); located in Virgo, near 34 Virginis; R.A. 12:43.7, dec. +11:33; magnitude 8.8; distance unknown.

Remarks: A giant elliptical member of the Virgo galaxy cluster.

Observation: One of the most prominent members of the Virgo cluster. Visible in 75 mm or greater apertures.

M61

Synopsis: NGC 4303; galaxy (Sc); located in Virgo, about 8 degrees northwest of Gamma Virginis; R.A. 12:21.9, dec. +04:28; magnitude 9.7; distance unknown.

M62

Synopsis: NGC 6266; globular cluster; nominally located in Ophiuchus, a few degrees north of 27 Scorpii; R.A. 17:01.2, dec. -30:07; magnitude 6.6; distance 6,000 pc (19,560 light years).

M63

Synopsis: NGC 5055; galaxy (Sb); located in Canes Venatici, near 20 Canum Venaticorum; R.A. 13:15.8, dec. +42:02; magnitude 8.6; distance 4,447,900 pc (14,500,000 light years).

M64

Synopsis: NGC 4826, sometimes known as the Black Eye; galaxy (Sab); located in Coma Berenices, near 35 Comae Berenicis; R.A. 12:56.7, dec. +21:41; magnitude 8.5; distance 6,135,000 pc (20,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A spiral galaxy with a dark cloud of dust bordering its nucleus, at 20 million light years.

Observation: The dust lane is visible in apertures of 150 mm or greater.

M65

Synopsis: NGC 3623; galaxy (Sb); located in Leo, near 73 Leonis; R.A. 11:18.9, dec. +13:05; magnitude 9.3; distance 6,135,000 pc (20,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A spiral galaxy at 20 million light years.

Observation: Visible in powerful binoculars under optimum viewing conditions. However, 100 mm or greater aperture is required to discern the shape and condensed centre.

M66

Synopsis: NGC3627; galaxy (Sb); located in Leo, near 73 Leonis; R.A. 11:20.2, dec. +12:59; magnitude 9.0; distance 6,135,000 pc (20,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A spiral galaxy at 20 million light years.

Observation: Visible in powerful binoculars under optimum viewing conditions. However, 100 mm or greater aperture is required to discern the shape and condensed centre.

M67

Synopsis: NGC 2682; open cluster; located in Cancer, near Alpha Cancris; R.A. 08:50.4, dec. +11:49; magnitude 6.9; distance 800 pc (2,700 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of about 60 stars at 2700 light years.

Observation: Visible as a misty patch in binoculars and small telescopes. 75 mm or greater apertures will resolve individual stars.

M68

Synopsis: NGC 4590; globular cluster; located in Hydra, a few degrees south of Beta Corvi; R.A. 12:39.5, dec. -26:45; magnitude 8.2; distance 12,300 pc (40,000 light years).

M69

Synopsis: NGC 6637; globular cluster; located in Sagittarius, near Epsilon Sagittarii; R.A. 18:31.4, dec. -32:21; magnitude 7.7; distance 7,700 pc (25,000 light years).

M70

Synopsis: NGC 6681; globular cluster; located in Sagittarius, between Zeta and Epsilon Sagittari; R.A. 18:43.2, dec. -32:18; magnitude 8.1; distance 19,900 pc (65,000 light years).

M71

Synopsis: NGC 6838; globular cluster; located in Sagitta, Sagitta, between Delta and Gamma Saggitae; R.A. 19:53.8, dec. +18:47; magnitude 8.3; distance 5,500 pc (18,000 light years).

Remarks: A globular cluster or extremely rich open cluster, at 18,000 light years.

Observation: Visible as a small misty patch in binoculars.

M72

Synopsis: NGC 6981; globular cluster; located in Aquarius, near Epsilon Aquarii; R.A. 20:53.5, dec. -12:32; magnitude 9.3; distance 18,400 pc (60,000 light years).

Remarks: A faint globular cluster, at a distance of about 60,000 light years.

Observation: Too faint to be seen in binoculars.

M73

Synopsis: NGC 6994; group of three or four small stars; located in Aquarius, near Epsilon Aquarii; R.A. 20:58.9, dec. -12:30; magnitude 8.9; distance unknown.

M74

Synopsis: NGC 628; galaxy (Sc); located in Pisces, near Eta Piscium; R.A. 01:36.7, dec. +15:47; magnitude 9.2; distance 6,901,800 pc (22,500,000 light years).

Remarks: A face-on spiral galaxy with loosely wound arms, at 22.5 million light years.

Observation: M74 is one of the faintest Messier objects

M75

Synopsis: NGC 6864; globular cluster; located in Sagittarius, near the border with Capricornus; R.A. 20:06.1, dec. -21:55; magnitude 8.6; distance 3,100 pc (10,000 light years).

Remarks: At an estimated distance of 100,000 light years, M75 may be the most remote globular cluster in the Messier catalogue.

M76

Synopsis: NGC 650-1, Little Dumbbell; planetary nebula; located in Perseus, almost one degree NNW of Phi Persei; R.A. 01:42.4, dec. +51:34; magnitude 12.2; distance 1,000 pc (3,400 light years).

M77

Synopsis: NGC 1068; galaxy (SBp); located in Cetus, near Delta Ceti; R.A. 02:42.7, dec. -00:01; magnitude 8.8; distance 15,337,400 pc (50,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A small, face-on spiral galaxy at 50 million light years. M77 is a radio source and is the brightest known Seyfert galaxy. At least 150 mm aperture is required to see M77 well.

M78

Synopsis: NGC 2068; nebula; located in Orion, centred on a magnitude 9 double star, near 51 Orionis; R.A. 05:46.7, dec. +00:03; magnitude 8; distance unknown.

Remarks: A small, elongated nebula.

Observation: Shows some structure in large amateur telescopes.

M79

Synopsis: NGC 1904; globular cluster; located in Lepus, forming a triangle with Beta and Epsilon Leporis; R.A. 05:24.5, dec. -24:33; magnitude 8.0; distance 13,200 pc (43,000 light years).

Remarks: A small but rich globular cluster at 43,000 light years.

Observation: Appearing as a fuzzy star in small telescopes.

M80

Synopsis: NGC 6093; globular cluster; located in Scorpius, near Omicron Scorpii; R.A. 16:17.0, dec. -22:59; magnitude 7.2; distance 11,000 pc (36,000 light years).

Remarks: A small globular cluster lying at a distance of 36,000 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars or small telescope, appearing like the head of a comet.

M81

Synopsis: NGC 3031; galaxy (SB); located in Ursa Major, near 24 Ursae Majoris; R.A. 09:55.6, dec. +69:04; magnitude 6.9; distance 5,521,500 pc (18,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A symmetrical, oblique spiral galaxy subtending 0.25 degrees, at 18 million light years. M82 is a related companion.

Observation: Not visible from below latitude 40 degrees South.

M82

Synopsis: NGC 3034; galaxy (Pec); located in Ursa Major, near 24 Ursae Majoris; R.A. 09:55.8, dec. +69:41; magnitude 8.4; distance 5,521,500 pc (18,000,000 light years).

Remarks: An edge-on spiral galaxy at 18 million light years. M81 is a related companion.

Observation: Not visible from below latitude 40 degrees South.

M83

Synopsis: NGC 5236; galaxy (Sc); nominally located in Hydra, between Pi Hydrae and r Centauri; R.A. 13:37.0, dec. -29:52; magnitude 8.2; distance 2,454,000 pc (8,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A large, face-on, spiral galaxy.

Observation: The bright nucleus is visible in small telescopes. Viewing the spiral arms requires 150 mm or greater apertures.

M84

Synopsis: NGC 4374; galaxy (E1); located in Virgo, near Rho Virginis; R.A. 12:25.1, dec. +12:53; magnitude 9.3; distance unknown.

Remarks: An elliptical member of the Virgo galaxy cluster.

Observation: Visible in telescopes as a fuzzy patch with a noticeably brighter core.

M85

Synopsis: NGC 4382; galaxy (elliptical); located in Coma Berenices, near 11 Comae Berenicis; R.A. 12:22.8, dec. +18:28; magnitude 9; distance 19,938,700 pc (65,000,000 light years).

Remarks: An elliptical galaxy at 65 million light years.

Observation: Small telescopes show a bright star-like centre.

M86

Synopsis: NGC 4406; galaxy (E3); located in Virgo, in the centre of the Virgo Galaxy Cluster; R.A. 12:26.2, dec. +12:57; magnitude 9.2; distance unknown.

Remarks: An elliptical member of the Virgo galaxy cluster.

Observation: Visible in telescopes as a fuzzy patch with a noticeably brighter core.

M87

Synopsis: NGC 4486, Virgo A; galaxy (E1); located in Virgo, about one degree southeast of the Virgo Galaxy Cluster; R.A. 12:30.8, dec. +12:24; magnitude 8.6; distance unknown.

Remarks: A giant elliptical member of the Virgo galaxy cluster. M87 is a radio (Virgo A) and X-ray source. Photographs show a jet of matter, apparently being ejected from the galaxy.

Observation: Visible in telescopes as a rounded glow with a noticeable nucleus.

M88

Synopsis: NGC4501; galaxy (Sb); nominally located in Coma Berenices, forming an equilateral triangle with 29 Comae and 20 Virginis; R.A. 12:32.0, dec. +14:25; magnitude 9.5; distance 19,938,700 pc (65,000,000 light years).

Remarks: An edge-on spiral galaxy at 65 million light years.

M89

Synopsis: NGC 4552; galaxy (E0); located in Virgo, near the better-known M87; R.A. 12:35.7, dec. +12:33; magnitude 9.8; distance unknown.

M90

Synopsis: NGC 4569; galaxy (Sb); located in Virgo, between 29 Comae and 12 Virginis, closer to the former; R.A. 12:36.8, dec. +13:10; magnitude 9.5; distance unknown.

M91

Synopsis: NGC 4548; galaxy (SBb); located in Coma Berenices, in the centre of the Virgo Galaxy Cluster; R.A. 12:35.4, dec. +14:30; magnitude 10.2; distance unknown.

Remarks: It is uncertain exactly which object Messier included as his 91st catalogue entry. Suggestions have included M58 and an unrecognised comet. The suggestion that M91 refers to NGC 4548 is that adopted by Mallas & Kreimer 1978, and is followed here.

M92

Synopsis: NGC 6341; globular cluster; located in Hercules, between Iota and Eta Herculis; R.A. 17:17.1, dec. +43:08; magnitude 6.5; distance 11,000 pc (36,000 light years).

Remarks: A globular cluster at 36,000 light years.

Observation: Easily seen in binoculars, but requiring quite large apertures to resolve individual stars.

M93

Synopsis: NGC 2447; open cluster; located in Puppis, near Xi Puppis; R.A. 07:44.6, dec. -23:52; magnitude 6.2; distance 1,100 pc (3,600 light years).

Remarks: A wedge-shaped cluster of about 60 stars at 3600 light years.

Observation: Visible in binoculars.

M94

Synopsis: NGC 4736; galaxy (Sb); located in Canes Venatici, near Beta Canum Venaticorum; R.A. 12:50.9, dec. +41:07; magnitude 8.2; distance 4,294,500 pc (14,000,000 light years).

Remarks: An almost face on spiral, lying at a distance of 14 million light years.

Observation: Appears in small telescopes as a fuzzy star-like nucleus surrounded by an elliptical halo.

M95

Synopsis: NGC 3351; galaxy (SBb); located in Leo, near 53 Leonis; R.A. 10:44.0, dec. +11:42; magnitude 9.7; distance 6,748,500 pc (22,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A spiral galaxy at 22 million light years.

Observation: Visible as a circular luminous patch in small telescopes.

M96

Synopsis: NGC 3368; galaxy (Sb); located in Leo, near 53 Leonis; R.A. 10:46.8, dec. +11:49; magnitude 9.2; distance 6,748,500 pc (22,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A spiral galaxy at 22 million light years.

Observation: Visible as a circular luminous patch in small telescopes.

M97

Synopsis: NGC 3587, usually known as the Owl Nebula; planetary nebula; located in Ursa Major, near Beta Ursae Majoris; R.A. 11:14.8, dec. +55:01; magnitude 12.0; distance 800 pc (2,600 light years).

Remarks: A large but faint planetary nebula at 2600 light years.

Observation: Not visible from below latitude 40 degrees South.

M98

Synopsis: NGC 4192; galaxy (Sb); located in Coma Berenices, about half a degree west of 6 Comae; R.A. 12:13.8, dec. +14:54; magnitude 10.1; distance 11,349,700 pc (37,000,000 light years).

M99

Synopsis: NGC 4254; galaxy (Sc); located in Coma Berenices, near 6 Comae Berenicis; R.A. 12:18.8, dec. +14:25; magnitude 9.8; distance 19,938,700 pc (65,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A face-on spiral galaxy at 65 million light years.

M100

Synopsis: NGC 4321; galaxy (Sc); located in Coma Berenices, near 6 Comae Berenicis; R.A. 12:22.9, dec. +15:49; magnitude 9.4; distance 19,938,700 pc (65,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A face-on spiral galaxy at 65 million light years.

M101

Synopsis: NGC 5457, Pinwheel Galaxy; galaxy (spiral); located in Ursa Major, about 5.5 degrees east of Zeta UMa; R.A. 14:03.2, dec. +54:21; magnitude 7.7; distance 7,055,200 pc (23,000,000 light years).

Remarks: A face-on spiral galaxy with tightly wound arms subtending more than 0.25 degrees at 23 million light years.

Observation: Not visible from below latitude 40 degrees South.

M102

A duplicate of M101.

M103

Synopsis: NGC 581; open cluster; located in Cassiopeia, near Delta Cassiopeiae (Ruchbah); R.A. 01:33.2, dec. +60:42; magnitude 7.4; distance 1,200 pc (3,800 light years).

Remarks: A cluster of 25 or so stars at 3,800 light years.

M104

Synopsis: NGC 4594, usually known as the Sombrero galaxy; galaxy (Sb); nominally located in Virgo, between 21 Virginis and Corvus; R.A. 12:40.0, dec. -11:37; magnitude 8.3; distance 10,736,200 pc (35,000,000 light years).

Remarks: An edge-on spiral galaxy at 35 million light years.

Observation: The distinctive dust lanes are visible in 150 mm or greater apertures.

M105

Synopsis: NGC 3379; galaxy (E1); located in Leo, near 53 Leonis; R.A. 10:47.8, dec. +12:35; magnitude 9.3; distance unknown.

Remarks: An elliptical galaxy.

M106

Synopsis: NGC 4258; galaxy (Sb); located in Canes Venatici, near 3 Canum Venaticorum.; R.A. 12:19.0, dec. +47:18; magnitude 8.3; distance 7,668,700 pc (25,000,000 light years).

M107

Synopsis: NGC 6171; globular cluster; located in Ophiuchus, near Zeta Ophiuchi; R.A. 16:32.5, dec. -13:03; magnitude 8.1; distance 3,100 pc (10,000 light years).

M108

Synopsis: NGC 3556; galaxy (spiral); located in Ursa Major, near Beta Ursae Majoris; R.A. 11:08.7, dec. +55:57; magnitude 10; distance 7,668,700 pc (25,000,000 light years).

M109

Synopsis: NGC 3992; galaxy (barred spiral); located in Ursa Major, near Gamma Ursae Majoris; R.A. 11:55.0, dec. +53:39; magnitude 9.5; distance unknown.

M110

Synopsis: NGC 205; galaxy (E6); located in Andromeda, near Nu Andromedae; R.A. 00:40.4, dec. +41:41; magnitude 8.0; distance 674,800 pc (2,200,000 light years).

Remarks: This galaxy, together with M32, occurs on a drawing Messier made of the famous Andromeda galaxy, M31, which was published in 1807. A label on the drawing indicates that Messier first observed NGC 205 in 1773, ten years before Caroline Herschel, who is generally credited with its discovery. Thus, although Messier himself did not assign it a catalogue number, its addition to the Messier Catalogue was proposed in 1967 by K. Glyn Jones. (After Mallas & Kreimer 1978.)

References

Mallas, John H.; Kreimer, Evered 1978: The Messier album. Sky Publishing, 216 pp.