M 22 (NGC 6656)
M 22 (NGC 6656) is a globular cluster in the constellation Sagittarius, magnitude 5.1, 24′ across.
One of the brightest globular clusters, visible to the naked eye from dark sites and among the nearest at about 10,000 light-years. Even small telescopes resolve its brightest stars; it sits low for northern observers but is well worth catching.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around July, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in June). It can be seen from everywhere south of 66°N and never sets south of 66°S.
At its highest it stands 16° up from 50°N, 31° up from 35°N, 66° up from the equator, 79° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Globular cluster
- Constellation
- Sagittarius
- Designations
- NGC 6656, Great Sagittarius Cluster
- Magnitude
- 5.1
- Apparent size
- 24′
- Position
- RA 18h 36.4m, Dec −23° 54′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when M 22 (NGC 6656) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.