Located approximately 800 light-years away in the constellation Cygnus, Messier 39 (NGC 7092) is an open star cluster that enchants both amateur and professional astronomers. With a fascinating history and captivating features, this celestial gem continues to intrigue stargazers worldwide.
Spanning around 7 light-years across, Messier 39 is comprised of about 30 to 40 stars. Although it may appear modest compared to some other star clusters, its true beauty lies in its composition. Its stars are relatively young, estimated to be around 200 million years old. These stars exhibit a mesmerizing blue hue, dazzling observers with their brilliance.
First discovered by the French astronomer Charles Messier in 1764, this cluster made its way into the Messier catalog as the 39th entry. Messier 39 can be easily observed with binoculars or a small telescope, particularly on clear, dark nights away from light pollution.
The cluster’s stars are loosely bound together by their mutual gravitational pull. Over time, gravitational interactions with nearby stars and the galactic environment will gradually disperse the cluster, causing its stars to disperse into space. This slow dissolution process adds an additional layer of fascination to the observation of Messier 39, emphasizing the fleeting nature of celestial structures.
Messier 39 is a prime target for astrophotography enthusiasts. By capturing long-exposure images, photographers can showcase the cluster’s intricate details, emphasizing the contrast between its bright stars and the surrounding dark skies. The cluster also presents an excellent opportunity for studying stellar evolution and the dynamics of star clusters.
For astronomers, Messier 39 provides a platform for investigating various astronomical phenomena, such as stellar evolution, stellar dynamics, and the formation of open star clusters. Observations and studies of this cluster contribute to our understanding of how stars form, evolve, and disperse throughout the cosmos.
Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or simply appreciate the beauty of the night sky, take a moment to seek out Messier 39. Marvel at its sparkling stars, ponder its transient nature, and embrace the grandeur of the cosmos it represents.
Capture Details:
Date Image captured: 2023/06/08
Telescope: Celestron Nexstar 8se
Reducer/Flattener: Celestron 0.63x reducer/flattener
Filter: Optolong L-Pro
Camera: ZWO ASI294 MC
Mount: Skywatcher EQM-35 Pro
Total Captured: 128 x 60 seconds
Total Time: 2 Hours 8 Minutes
Capture Software: N.I.N.A.
Guiding: PHD2, ZWO asi120mm mini
Sorftware: N.I.N.A. PixInsight
Additional details on Astrobin.com.