M5
globular cluster · Serpens · 5.8ᵐ
One of the oldest globular clusters known — about 13 billion years old, nearly as old as the Universe itself.
Notable facts
About 1/2 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M5 in?
M5 lies in Serpens.
Is M5 visible to the naked eye?
5.8ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies).
When is the best time to observe M5?
Best observed in May.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 15h 19m · +2° 05′
- Type
- globular cluster
- Constellation
- Serpens
- How to observe
- 5.8ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies)
- Angular size
- 17′
- Designation
- M5 · NGC 5904
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° | 32° | 86° |
| +55° | 37° | 86° |
| +45° | 47° | 87° |
| +30° | 62° | 88° |
| 0° | 88° | 88° |
| −35° | 53° | 87° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 07:33 |
| February | 05:26 |
| March | 03:40 |
| April | 01:47 |
| May | 23:53 |
| June | 21:47 |
| July | 19:43 |
| August | 17:42 |
| September | 15:49 |
| October | 14:00 |
| November | 11:59 |
| December | 09:51 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.