Tau Canis Majoris Cluster (NGC 2362)

Tau Canis Majoris Cluster (NGC 2362) is an open cluster in the constellation Canis Major, magnitude 4.1, 7.2′ across.

A small, bright young open cluster around the 4th-magnitude star Tau Canis Majoris, which dominates it like a jewel.

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 65°N and never sets south of 65°S.

At its highest it stands 15° up from 50°N, 30° up from 35°N, 65° up from the equator, 80° up from 35°S.

Facts

Type

Open cluster

Constellation

Canis Major

Designations

NGC 2362, C 64, Mel 65, Cr 136, Melotte 65, Collinder 136

Magnitude

4.1

Apparent size

7.2′

Position

RA 7h 18.7m, Dec −24° 57′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when Tau Canis Majoris Cluster (NGC 2362) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.