M 72 (NGC 6981)
M 72 (NGC 6981) is a globular cluster in the constellation Aquarius, magnitude 9.3, 5.9′ across.
A faint, remote globular cluster in Aquarius, about 55,000 light-years away, appearing as a small, round fuzzy patch.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around September, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in August). It can be seen from everywhere south of 77°N and never sets south of 77°S.
At its highest it stands 27° up from 50°N, 42° up from 35°N, 77° up from the equator, 68° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Globular cluster
- Constellation
- Aquarius
- Designations
- NGC 6981
- Magnitude
- 9.3
- Apparent size
- 5.9′
- Position
- RA 20h 53.5m, Dec −12° 32′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when M 72 (NGC 6981) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.