M4
globular cluster · Scorpius · 5.9ᵐ
One of the closest globular clusters at 7,200 light years. A telescope reveals a distinctive bar of stars across its core.
Notable facts
About 1/1 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M4 in?
M4 lies in Scorpius.
Is M4 visible to the naked eye?
5.9ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies).
When is the best time to observe M4?
Best observed in May.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 16h 24m · −26° 32′
- Type
- globular cluster
- Constellation
- Scorpius
- How to observe
- 5.9ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies)
- Angular size
- 26′
- Designation
- M4 · NGC 6121
Observing tip
In binoculars it is a fuzzy ball; a 100–150 mm telescope starts to resolve individual stars around the edges.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 3° | 153° |
| +55° | 8° | 141° |
| +45° | 18° | 129° |
| +30° | 33° | 121° |
| 0° | 63° | 117° |
| −35° | 82° | 123° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 08:38 |
| February | 06:31 |
| March | 04:45 |
| April | 02:52 |
| May | 00:58 |
| June | 22:52 |
| July | 20:48 |
| August | 18:47 |
| September | 16:54 |
| October | 15:05 |
| November | 13:04 |
| December | 10:56 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.