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.

Images were combined in RegiStar and adjusted in Photoshop.

To see a close-up view of this cluster, click here.