M46
open cluster · Puppis · 6.1ᵐ
A rich open cluster with the planetary nebula NGC 2438 superimposed — a striking line-of-sight coincidence.
Notable facts
About the same apparent size as the full Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M46 in?
M46 lies in Puppis.
Is M46 visible to the naked eye?
6.1ᵐ — visible with binoculars.
When is the best time to observe M46?
Best observed in January.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 7h 42m · −14° 49′
- Type
- open cluster
- Constellation
- Puppis
- How to observe
- 6.1ᵐ — visible with binoculars
- Angular size
- 27′
- Designation
- M46 · NGC 2437
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° | 15° | 121° |
| +55° | 20° | 116° |
| +45° | 30° | 111° |
| +30° | 45° | 107° |
| 0° | 75° | 105° |
| −35° | 70° | 108° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 23:56 |
| February | 21:49 |
| March | 20:04 |
| April | 18:10 |
| May | 16:16 |
| June | 14:10 |
| July | 12:06 |
| August | 10:05 |
| September | 08:12 |
| October | 06:23 |
| November | 04:22 |
| December | 02:14 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.