Wild Duck Cluster
open cluster · Scutum · 5.8ᵐ
The Wild Duck Cluster — one of the densest open clusters, with about 3,000 stars in a V-shape like a flight of ducks.
Notable facts
About 1/2 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is Wild Duck Cluster in?
Wild Duck Cluster lies in Scutum.
Is Wild Duck Cluster visible to the naked eye?
5.8ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies).
When is the best time to observe Wild Duck Cluster?
Best observed in July.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 18h 51m · −6° 16′
- Type
- open cluster
- Constellation
- Scutum
- How to observe
- 5.8ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies)
- Angular size
- 14′
- Designation
- M11 · NGC 6705 · Wild Duck Cluster
Observing tip
Best in binoculars or a telescope at low power, so the whole cluster fits in the field of view.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 24° | 103° |
| +55° | 29° | 101° |
| +45° | 39° | 99° |
| +30° | 54° | 97° |
| 0° | 84° | 96° |
| −35° | 61° | 98° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 11:06 |
| February | 08:58 |
| March | 07:13 |
| April | 05:20 |
| May | 03:25 |
| June | 01:19 |
| July | 23:15 |
| August | 21:14 |
| September | 19:21 |
| October | 17:32 |
| November | 15:32 |
| December | 13:23 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.