# Beehive Cluster (M 44)

Beehive Cluster (M 44) is an open cluster in the constellation Cancer, magnitude 3.7, 1.6° across.

Praesepe, the Beehive: a large open cluster visible to the naked eye as a misty patch in Cancer, about 600 light-years away. Binoculars resolve dozens of stars and frame it best.

## When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around February, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in January). It can be seen from everywhere north of 70°S and never sets north of 70°N.

At its highest it stands 60° up from 50°N, 75° up from 35°N, 70° up from the equator, 35° up from 35°S.

## Facts

- Type: Open cluster
- Constellation: Cancer
- Designations: M 44, NGC 2632, Mel 88, Cr 189, Beehive, Praesepe Cluster, Praesepe, Melotte 88, Collinder 189
- Magnitude: 3.7
- Apparent size: 1.6°
- Position: RA 8h 40.4m, Dec +19° 40′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when Beehive Cluster (M 44) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view. https://astropilot.space/object/M44