M 46
(NGC 2437) is an open star cluster that lies 5500 light years away
in the constellation of Puppis. It was discovered by Charles Messier
in 1771. The cluster spans 30 light years and contains approximately
500 stars. It is relatively young - 300 million years old.
The
planetary nebula NGC 2438 appears to be within the borders of the
cluster but is actually 1500 light years closer to us.
Telescope:
Takahashi
TOA 130 NFB
Camera:
Modified Canon T4i (650D);
ISO 1600; raw capture
Mount:
iOptron CEM60
Guiding:
QHY 5L-II on 60mm guide scope
Exposure:
16 @ 5 min.
Note:
Images were captured,
aligned, and combined in ImagesPlus. The composite image was adjusted
in Photoshop.