Open cluster · Auriga

M38 Starfish Cluster

Also known as: NGC 1912

mag 6.421′ across

About

M38, the Starfish Cluster, is an open cluster of magnitude 6.4 in Auriga, about 21′ across.

M38 is in the constellation Auriga.
Best evenings: around late January it is highest at about 9 pm (10 pm in summer time); a month earlier, two hours later.
Where on Earth: it is seen well, at least 10° up, from north of 44° S.

When it rises and sets tonight, how high it climbs and how much the Moon gets in the way are worked out in your browser for your place.

EyesNot visible to the naked eye.
Binoculars (10×50)A rich scattering of stars — binoculars often give the best view.
Telescope (6–8 inch)Dozens of stars, many sharp and some coloured.

For a dark country sky with no Moon. From a city, faint galaxies and nebulae can disappear completely.

Designations	M38, NGC 1912
Type	Open cluster
Magnitude	6.4The smaller the number, the brighter.
Apparent size	21′the full Moon is 31′ across
Constellation	Auriga
Right ascension (J2000)	05h 28m 42.5s
Declination (J2000)	+35° 51′ 18″