Messier 2

Messier 2 (M2) is a globular cluster in the constellation Aquarius, with an apparent magnitude of 6.3. It is about 39,139 light-years away.

Finder chart for Messier 2 in the constellation Aquarius
Messier 2 (circled) in Aquarius. Pink symbols mark Messier objects.
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Facts

CatalogMessier 2 (M2)
Typeglobular cluster
ConstellationAquarius
Apparent magnitude6.3
Distanceabout 39,139 light-years
Right ascension21 h 33.5 min
Declination−0.82°
Best monthSeptember (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 M2

M2 is in Aquarius. From 40° N it is highest in the south in September evenings, about 49° up. From 35° S it reaches about 56° in the north. Binoculars show it under a dark sky; a small telescope shows more detail.

Aquarius constellation →

Other Messier objects in Aquarius

Messier 72 (M72)Messier 73 (M73)

The Messier catalog →

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