2011-06-01

M 70




Photo by Pittendreigh

At an estimated distance of 70,000 light years, M54 is the most distant globular in the Messier list. The other two, M69 and M70, are about half that distance from us and are relatively close to each other.

HOW TO FIND IT:

These three globular clusters are all found by scanning the area between Zeta and Epsilon Sagittarii, which are the two stars that make up the bottom of the "teapot." Draw a line from Zeta to Epsilon, and you will first come to M54, followed by M70. M69 will be somewhat north of the line, in the teapot area.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

M54 will be one of the most densely packed globular clusters in Messier's list. M69 was described by Messier as a "nebula without a star." All three appear rather small. M70 may appear with a slightly irregular outline.



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