M36
open cluster · Auriga · 6.0ᵐ
A young open cluster in Auriga — one of the trio (M36, M37, M38) that is convenient to sweep through in one session.
Notable facts
About 1/3 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M36 in?
M36 lies in Auriga.
Is M36 visible to the naked eye?
6.0ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies).
When is the best time to observe M36?
Best observed in December.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 5h 36m · +34° 08′
- Type
- open cluster
- Constellation
- Auriga
- How to observe
- 6.0ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies)
- Angular size
- 12′
- Designation
- M36 · NGC 1960
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° | 64° · never sets | — |
| +55° | 69° | 12° |
| +45° | 79° | 37° |
| +30° | 86° | 50° |
| 0° | 56° | 56° |
| −35° | 21° | 47° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 21:51 |
| February | 19:43 |
| March | 17:58 |
| April | 16:05 |
| May | 14:10 |
| June | 12:04 |
| July | 10:00 |
| August | 07:59 |
| September | 06:06 |
| October | 04:17 |
| November | 02:17 |
| December | 00:08 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.