M 73 (NGC 6994)
M 73 (NGC 6994) is an asterism in the constellation Aquarius, magnitude 9.0, 2.8′ across.
Four stars in Aquarius forming a small Y. Messier logged it as a cluster with nebulosity, but the stars are unrelated and lie at different distances.
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
- Asterism
- Constellation
- Aquarius
- Designations
- NGC 6994
- Magnitude
- 9.0
- Apparent size
- 2.8′
- Position
- RA 20h 58.9m, Dec −12° 38′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when M 73 (NGC 6994) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.