Coalsack Cluster (NGC 4609)

Coalsack Cluster (NGC 4609) is an open cluster in the constellation Crux, magnitude 6.9, 6.5′ across.

A small open cluster seen against the dark Coalsack Nebula in Crux.

When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around May, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in April). It can be seen from everywhere south of 27°N and never sets south of 27°S.

At its highest it stands below the horizon from 50°N, below the horizon from 35°N, 27° up from the equator, 62° up from 35°S.

Facts

Type

Open cluster

Constellation

Crux

Designations

NGC 4609, C 98

Magnitude

6.9

Apparent size

6.5′

Position

RA 12h 42.3m, Dec −62° 60′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when Coalsack Cluster (NGC 4609) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.