M50
open cluster · Monoceros · 5.9ᵐ
A Messier catalogue object — open cluster in Monoceros.
Notable facts
About 1/2 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M50 in?
M50 lies in Monoceros.
Is M50 visible to the naked eye?
5.9ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies).
When is the best time to observe M50?
Best observed in January.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 7h 03m · −8° 20′
- Type
- open cluster
- Constellation
- Monoceros
- How to observe
- 5.9ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies)
- Angular size
- 16′
- Designation
- M50 · NGC 2323
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° | 22° | 107° |
| +55° | 27° | 105° |
| +45° | 37° | 102° |
| +30° | 52° | 100° |
| 0° | 82° | 98° |
| −35° | 63° | 100° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 23:18 |
| February | 21:10 |
| March | 19:25 |
| April | 17:32 |
| May | 15:37 |
| June | 13:31 |
| July | 11:27 |
| August | 09:26 |
| September | 07:33 |
| October | 05:45 |
| November | 03:44 |
| December | 01:35 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.