Messier 12

Messier 12 (M12) is a globular cluster in the constellation Ophiuchus, with an apparent magnitude of 6.1. It is about 16,308 light-years away.

Finder chart for Messier 12 in the constellation Ophiuchus
Messier 12 (circled) in Ophiuchus. Pink symbols mark Messier objects.
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Facts

CatalogMessier 12 (M12)
Typeglobular cluster
ConstellationOphiuchus
Apparent magnitude6.1
Distanceabout 16,308 light-years
Right ascension16 h 47.2 min
Declination−1.95°
Best monthJuly (at about 9 pm)

Sources: star positions, magnitudes and colors from the Yale Bright Star Catalogue; constellation boundaries and star names from the IAU; areas and distances from Wikidata; stick figures by M. van der Sluys. How the maps are made.

How to find M12

M12 is in Ophiuchus. From 40° N it is highest in the south in July evenings, about 48° up. From 35° S it reaches about 57° in the north. Binoculars show it under a dark sky; a small telescope shows more detail.

Ophiuchus constellation →

Other Messier objects in Ophiuchus

Messier 9 (M9)Messier 10 (M10)Messier 14 (M14)Messier 19 (M19)Messier 62 (M62)Messier 107 (M107)

The Messier catalog →

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