M 4 (NGC 6121)
M 4 (NGC 6121) is a globular cluster in the constellation Scorpius, magnitude 5.6, 26′ across.
One of the nearest globular clusters, about 7,200 light-years away, and among the easiest to resolve: small telescopes show individual stars and a bar of stars across its center. It lies just west of Antares.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around June, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in May). It can be seen from everywhere south of 63°N and never sets south of 63°S.
At its highest it stands 13° up from 50°N, 28° up from 35°N, 63° up from the equator, 82° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Globular cluster
- Constellation
- Scorpius
- Designations
- NGC 6121, Spider Globular Cluster
- Magnitude
- 5.6
- Apparent size
- 26′
- Position
- RA 16h 23.6m, Dec −26° 32′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when M 4 (NGC 6121) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.