M46
open cluster · Puppis · 6.1ᵐ
A rich open cluster with the planetary nebula NGC 2438 superimposed — a striking line-of-sight coincidence.
Notable facts
About 1/1 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M46 in?
M46 lies in Puppis.
Is M46 visible to the naked eye?
6.1ᵐ — visible with binoculars.
When is the best time to observe M46?
Best observed in January.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 7h 42m · −14° 49′
- Type
- open cluster
- Constellation
- Puppis
- How to observe
- 6.1ᵐ — visible with binoculars
- Angular size
- 27′
- Designation
- M46 · NGC 2437
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° | 15° | 121° |
| +55° | 20° | 116° |
| +45° | 30° | 111° |
| +30° | 45° | 107° |
| 0° | 75° | 105° |
| −35° | 70° | 108° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 23:56 |
| February | 21:49 |
| March | 20:04 |
| April | 18:10 |
| May | 16:16 |
| June | 14:10 |
| July | 12:06 |
| August | 10:05 |
| September | 08:12 |
| October | 06:23 |
| November | 04:22 |
| December | 02:14 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.