Christmas Tree Cluster

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**Christmas Tree Cluster**
Observation data: J2000.0 epoch

Class:	open cluster
Constellation:	Monoceros
Right ascension:	06^h 41.1^m
Declination:	+09° 53′
Distance:	2.4 kly (0.7 kPc)
Apparent magnitude (V):	3.9
Apparent dimensions (V):	20.0′
Physical characteristics
Mass:	( M_☉)
Radius:
V_HB:
Estimated age:	3 Myr
Notable features:
Other designations:	NGC 2264
See also: Open cluster, List of open clusters

The Christmas Tree Cluster (also known as Open Cluster NGC 2264 or the Xmas Tree Cluster, and sometimes incorrectly referred as NGC 2264) is an open cluster in the Monoceros constellation. It was discovered by William Herschel in 1784. The cluster is located about 800 parsecs or 2,600 light-years away from Earth.

The Christmas Tree Cluster is sometimes referred as a single astronomical object along with the Cone Nebula with the name of NGC 2264. However, the designation of NGC 2264 in the New General Catalogue refers to both objects and not the cluster alone.