Messier 50

Messier 50
Observation data (J2000 epoch)
Right ascension	07^h 03.2^m
Declination	−08° 20′
Distance	3.2 kly (1 kpc)
Apparent magnitude (V)	5.9
Apparent dimensions (V)	16.0′
Physical characteristics
Radius	10
Estimated age	78 million years
Other designations	NGC 2323

Messier 50 (also known as M 50 or NGC 2323) is an open cluster in the constellation Monoceros. It was perhaps discovered by G. D. Cassini before 1711 and independently discovered by Charles Messier in 1772. M50 is at a distance of about 3,000 light-years away from Earth. It is described as a 'heart-shaped' figure.

External links

• Messier 50, SEDS Messier pages
• M50 Image by Waid Observatory
• Messier 50 on WikiSky: DSS2, SDSS, GALEX, IRAS, Hydrogen α, X-Ray, Astrophoto, Sky Map, Articles and images

Coordinates: 07^h 03.2^m 00^s, −08° 20′ 00″