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Open star cluster M38

Open star cluster M38 is in the constellation Auriga (Aur).

Equatorial coordinates (epoch J2000):
Ra (α):05^h28.7^m, Dec (δ):+35° 51'

Visual magnitude: 7,0^m
Distance from the star clusters M38 to the Sun is 3480 light years
Angular size: 15'
Class: II
External dimensions the star clusters M38 are about 15 light years.
Number of stars: 100
Age of the object M38 is 150—290x10⁶ years

Discoverer: Giovanni Battista Hodierna, before 1654 year.

The designation M38 in other catalogs: NGC 1912

Optimum magnification for a telescope with observations of M38, depending on the aperture of the telescope (D), is about D/6-D/2. Higher magnifications of course add details, but lead to a strong drop in the brightness of the image, making it difficult to observe.

The best month for observing M38 is January. At this time, the object is at midnight near its highest point in the sky, that is, it is less affected by light from the lanterns and atmospheric distortions.

Мessier 37

Мessier 39

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