... М67 < М68 > М69 ...

Globular star cluster M68

Globular star cluster M68 is in the constellation Hydra (Hya).

Equatorial coordinates (epoch J2000):
Ra (α):12^h39.5^m, Dec (δ):-26° 45'

Visual magnitude: 9,0^m
Distance from the star clusters M68 to the Sun is 36580 light years
Angular size: 11'
Class: X
External dimensions the star clusters M68 are about 120 light years.
Estimated weight the star clusters: 223x10³ suns

Discoverer: Charles Messier, 1780 year.

The designation M68 in other catalogs: NGC 4590

M68 in the middle latitudes is located quite low above the horizon, so observation is difficult due to atmospheric distortions.
In the northern latitudes is not visible. Optimum magnification for a telescope with observations of M68, depending on the aperture of the telescope (D), is about D/3-D. 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 M68 is May. 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.

For observers in the northern latitudes:the night sky in May is no longer very dark, so try also to observe M68 in April.
Of course, in April the object is at midnight not at its highest point, whichprovides the least exposure and atmospheric distortion. But, the darkness of the April sky greatly increases the contrast.The farther south the location of your observation is located, the darker the summer sky will be.

Мessier 67

Мessier 69

Liked?