| Description |
You'll instantly notice that this object is a much
tighter cluster than M41. And, considering that it's also a bit brighter,
it's interesting that Messier did not record it as well. This cluster
contains about about 50 stars surrounding magnitude 4 Tau Canis Majoris.
This is a very beautiful and very interesting cluster. The majority of
cluster members look as if they're playing some sort of supporting role for
the brighter star which is several magnitudes brighter than any of the
others. In binoculars, the cluster resembles a soft haze, while a 6"
resolves about 25 of the member stars. In a large telescope, this object
is quite impressive. |
