M38
open cluster · Auriga · 6.4ᵐ
An open cluster whose star chains suggest the Greek letter pi.
Notable facts
About the same apparent size as the full Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M38 in?
M38 lies in Auriga.
Is M38 visible to the naked eye?
6.4ᵐ — visible with binoculars.
When is the best time to observe M38?
Best observed in December.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 5h 29m · +35° 50′
- Type
- open cluster
- Constellation
- Auriga
- How to observe
- 6.4ᵐ — visible with binoculars
- Angular size
- 21′
- Designation
- M38 · NGC 1912
Observing tip
Best in binoculars or a telescope at low power, so the whole cluster fits in the field of view.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 66° · never sets | — |
| +55° | 71° · never sets | — |
| +45° | 81° | 34° |
| +30° | 84° | 47° |
| 0° | 54° | 54° |
| −35° | 19° | 44° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 21:43 |
| February | 19:36 |
| March | 17:51 |
| April | 15:57 |
| May | 14:03 |
| June | 11:57 |
| July | 09:53 |
| August | 07:52 |
| September | 05:59 |
| October | 04:10 |
| November | 02:09 |
| December | 00:01 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.