Open Cluster M29

Astrophotography by David Gares

Open Cluster M29

M29 is a coarse open cluster of about 20 stars that resembles a tiny, dim version of the Pleiades. Interstellar matter is thought to be 1000 times denser near this Milky Way cluster and limits the brightness by 3 magnitudes. This cluster is thought to be approaching us at 28 km/second. The image below was shot through the worst haze I've ever imaged through.

Open Cluster M29
(Click image to enlarge)

Object Details:

Type:  Open Cluster
Constellation:  Cygnus
Distance:  4000 light-years
Size:  11 light-years (?)

Image Details:

Date: July 25, 2004
Site: Harahan, LA (hazy skies)
Exposure: CCD, 5 x 5 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