Right ascension 23 24.2 Distance 5.0 kly Apparent dimensions (V) 13.0' | Declination +61° 35′ Apparent magnitude (V) 5.0 Other designations M 52, NGC 7654 | |
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Messier 52 (also known as M52 or NGC 7654) is an open cluster in the Cassiopeia constellation. It was discovered by Charles Messier in 1774. M52 can be seen from Earth with binoculars.
Due to interstellar absorption of light, the distance to M52 is uncertain, with estimates ranging between 3,000 and 7,000 light years. One study identified 193 probable members of the cluster, with the brightest member being magnitude 11.
Messier 52 is evaluated at about 35 million years old.
Messier 52 has the Trumpler classification of I,2,r.
References
Messier 52 Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA