M 46 (NGC 2437)
M 46 (NGC 2437) is an open cluster in the constellation Puppis, magnitude 6.0, 27′ across.
A rich, even cluster of hundreds of faint stars. The planetary nebula NGC 2438 appears on its northern side, though it is probably unrelated to the cluster.
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 south of 75°N and never sets south of 75°S.
At its highest it stands 25° up from 50°N, 40° up from 35°N, 75° up from the equator, 70° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Open cluster
- Constellation
- Puppis
- Designations
- NGC 2437, Mel 75, Cr 159, Melotte 75, Collinder 159
- Magnitude
- 6.0
- Apparent size
- 27′
- Position
- RA 7h 41.8m, Dec −14° 49′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when M 46 (NGC 2437) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.