NGC 6242 (Mel 155)

NGC 6242 (Mel 155) is an open cluster in the constellation Scorpius, magnitude 6.4, 6.6′ across.

A 6.4-magnitude open cluster in Scorpius, about 6.6′ across.

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 51°N and never sets south of 51°S.

At its highest it stands 1° up from 50°N, 16° up from 35°N, 51° up from the equator, 86° up from 35°S.

Facts

Type

Open cluster

Constellation

Scorpius

Designations

Mel 155, Cr 317, Melotte 155, Collinder 317

Magnitude

6.4

Apparent size

6.6′

Position

RA 16h 55.6m, Dec −39° 28′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when NGC 6242 (Mel 155) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.