Messier 48

Messier 48 (M48) is a open cluster in the constellation Hydra, with an apparent magnitude of 5.8. It is about 2,508 light-years away.

Finder chart for Messier 48 in the constellation Hydra
Messier 48 (circled) in Hydra. Pink symbols mark Messier objects.
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Facts

CatalogMessier 48 (M48)
Typeopen cluster
ConstellationHydra
Apparent magnitude5.8
Distanceabout 2,508 light-years
Right ascension8 h 13.7 min
Declination−5.75°
Best monthMarch (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 M48

M48 is in Hydra. From 40° N it is highest in the south in March evenings, about 44° up. From 35° S it reaches about 61° in the north. Binoculars show it under a dark sky; a small telescope shows more detail.

Hydra constellation →

Other Messier objects in Hydra

Messier 68 (M68)Southern Pinwheel Galaxy (M83)

The Messier catalog →

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