Open cluster · Monoceros

NGC 2244

Also known as: C50, NGC 2239

mag 4.824′ across

About

NGC 2244 is an open cluster of magnitude 4.8 in Monoceros, about 24′ across.

NGC 2244 is in the constellation Monoceros.
Best evenings: around mid-February 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 75° S.
Winter Triangle: A small cluster inside the triangle, east of Betelgeuse; the nebula around it needs a dark sky and a filter.

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.

EyesA faint smudge at the limit of vision, only from a dark site.
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	NGC 2244, C50, NGC 2239
Type	Open cluster
Magnitude	4.8The smaller the number, the brighter.
Apparent size	24′the full Moon is 31′ across
Constellation	Monoceros
Right ascension (J2000)	06h 31m 55.6s
Declination (J2000)	+04° 56′ 34″