M44

Beehive Cluster

 

Object M44 -- Open Cluster
Constellation Cancer
Date Aquired 03/10/2004
Camera ST-2000 with CFW-8
Exposure 5x3Min L, 5X5Min R , 3X3Min G , 3X4Min B
Telescope Takahashi FS-60C @ F/5.6
Mount Losmandy G11

 

Also known as Praesepe, M44 is one of the oldest open clusters, at about 400 million years old.  It is about 580 light years distant, and spans about 10 light years. 

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