Open cluster · Carina

NGC 2516 Diamond Cluster

Also known as: C96

mag 3.821′ across

About

NGC 2516, the Diamond Cluster, is an open cluster of magnitude 3.8 in Carina, about 21′ across.

NGC 2516 is in the constellation Carina.
Best evenings: around early March 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 south of 19° N.
False Cross: A rich cluster 3° south-west of Avior, visible to the eye from a dark site.

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 hazy patch or a knot of faint stars 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 2516, C96
Type	Open cluster
Magnitude	3.8The smaller the number, the brighter.
Apparent size	21′the full Moon is 31′ across
Constellation	Carina
Right ascension (J2000)	07h 58m 07.1s
Declination (J2000)	−60° 45′ 13″