M 44 (NGC 2632) is an open star cluster
located in the constellation of Cancer, the crab. It is also known
as the Beehive Cluster and the Praesepe ("manger"). It
lies approximately 600 light years away and is one of the closest
star clusters near us. It spans 1.5 degrees and is visible to the
naked eye. It is approximately 600 million years old and contains
both red giants and white dwarfs.
Telescope:
Takahashi
FS-102 @f/6
Camera:
Mamiya 645
Film:
Kodak E-200
Exposures:
10 and 15 min.
Note:
Images were combined
in RegiStar and adjusted in Photoshop.
To see a close-up view
of this cluster, click here.