NGC 6231 (C 76)

NGC 6231 (C 76) is an open cluster in the constellation Scorpius, magnitude 2.6, 14′ across.

A brilliant young open cluster just north of Zeta Scorpii, full of hot blue-white stars.

When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around July, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in June). It can be seen from everywhere south of 48°N and never sets south of 48°S.

At its highest it stands below the horizon from 50°N, 13° up from 35°N, 48° up from the equator, 83° up from 35°S.

Facts

Type

Open cluster

Constellation

Scorpius

Designations

C 76, Mel 153, Cr 315, Melotte 153, Collinder 315

Magnitude

2.6

Apparent size

14′

Position

RA 16h 54.2m, Dec −41° 49′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when NGC 6231 (C 76) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.