Wild Duck Cluster M11

Astrophotography by David Gares

Wild Duck Cluster M11

M11, the Wild Duck Cluster, is a circular group of more than 1000 stars. The brightest stars resemble a wedge-shaped cluster of flying ducks when viewed at low power. This is a rich, compact cluster that is considered the most rewarding of the open clusters by many. The image below was shot through haze from Alaskan forest fires carried down by a "cold front" in summer.

Wild Duck Cluster M11
(Click image to enlarge)

Object Details:

Type:  Open Cluster
Constellation:  Scutum
Distance:  6000 light-years
Size:  20+ light-years

Image Details:

Date: July 19, 2004
Site: Harahan, LA (hazy skies)
Exposure: CCD, 5 x 2 min.
Filters: Orion SkyGlow LPR
Processing: MSB Astroart 3.0
Telescope: 10" Meade LX200
Reducer: Meade f/4.3
CCD: Starlight Express MX7C
Autoguider: S.T.A.R. 2000