Globular Cluster in Serpens
Messier 5 is a superb object, one of the brightest globular clusters in the sky. It is located in the head (west) end of the constellation Serpens, and is well placed for viewing in the late spring and summer months.
The stars around the edges of this dense cluster can be resolved in even small telescopes, and its central core is very dense and bright. The view through telescopes with apertures of 10 inches or more is truly spectacular, with hundreds of stars visible.
| Magnitude | 5.8 |
| Apparent Size | 17' |
| Distance (light yrs) | 24,000 |
| Right Ascension | 15:18.6 |
| Declination | +2 05 |
| Field of View | 22.5' x 15' |
Image details: Exposure times of 30 minutes luminance and 24 minutes each of red, green, and blue, taken with an SBIG ST-8300M imager and a 14" Meade LX850 telescope at f/6.
June 2015