# M 36 (NGC 1960)

M 36 (NGC 1960) is an open cluster in the constellation Auriga, magnitude 6.3, 12′ across.

The most compact of the three bright open clusters in Auriga (M36, M37 and M38): a tight group of about 60 young stars.

## When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around January, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in December). It can be seen from everywhere north of 56°S and never sets north of 56°N.

At its highest it stands 74° up from 50°N, 89° up from 35°N, 56° up from the equator, 21° up from 35°S.

## Facts

- Type: Open cluster
- Constellation: Auriga
- Designations: NGC 1960, Mel 37, Cr 71, Pinwheel Cluster, Melotte 37, Collinder 71
- Magnitude: 6.3
- Apparent size: 12′
- Position: RA 5h 36.3m, Dec +34° 8′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when M 36 (NGC 1960) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view. https://astropilot.space/object/M36