M4
globular cluster · Scorpius · 5.9ᵐ
One of the closest globular clusters at 7,200 light years. A telescope reveals a distinctive bar of stars across its core.
Notable facts
About the same apparent size as the full Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M4 in?
M4 lies in Scorpius.
Is M4 visible to the naked eye?
5.9ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies).
When is the best time to observe M4?
Best observed in May.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 16h 24m · −26° 32′
- Type
- globular cluster
- Constellation
- Scorpius
- How to observe
- 5.9ᵐ — visible to the naked eye (under dark skies)
- Angular size
- 26′
- Designation
- M4 · NGC 6121
Observing tip
In binoculars it is a fuzzy ball; a 100–150 mm telescope starts to resolve individual stars around the edges.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 3° | 153° |
| +55° | 8° | 141° |
| +45° | 18° | 129° |
| +30° | 33° | 121° |
| 0° | 63° | 117° |
| −35° | 82° | 123° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 08:38 |
| February | 06:31 |
| March | 04:45 |
| April | 02:52 |
| May | 00:58 |
| June | 22:52 |
| July | 20:48 |
| August | 18:47 |
| September | 16:54 |
| October | 15:05 |
| November | 13:04 |
| December | 10:56 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.