Messier 21

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Messier 21
Observation data: J2000.0 epoch
Class: I,3,m
Constellation:
Right ascension: 18h 04.6m
Declination: −22° 30′
Distance: 4.25 kly (1.3 kPc)
Apparent magnitude (V): 6.5
Apparent dimensions (V): 13.0′
Physical characteristics
Mass: ( M)
Radius:
VHB:
Estimated age: 4.6 million years
Notable features:
Other designations: NGC 6531
See also: Open cluster, List of open clusters


Open Cluster M21 (also known as Messier Object 21 or NGC 6531) is an open cluster in the constellation Sagittarius. It was discovered and catalogued by Charles Messier on June 5, 1764. M21 is a relatively young cluster of a mere 4.6 million years of age and contains about 57 stars.

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