# M 54 (NGC 6715)

M 54 (NGC 6715) is a globular cluster in the constellation Sagittarius, magnitude 7.6, 9.1′ across.

A small, bright globular cluster about 87,000 light-years away that belongs to the Sagittarius Dwarf Galaxy, not to the Milky Way — so Messier's 1778 discovery was, unknowingly, the first globular cluster found in another galaxy.

## When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around August, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in July). It can be seen from everywhere south of 60°N and never sets south of 60°S.

At its highest it stands 10° up from 50°N, 25° up from 35°N, 60° up from the equator, 85° up from 35°S.

## Facts

- Type: Globular cluster
- Constellation: Sagittarius
- Designations: NGC 6715
- Magnitude: 7.6
- Apparent size: 9.1′
- Position: RA 18h 55.1m, Dec −30° 29′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when M 54 (NGC 6715) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view. https://astropilot.space/object/M54