Astronz Object of The Week: M2
Astronz Object of the Week: M2 - A Glimpse into the Past
This week, we’re taking a closer look at Messier 2 (M2), one of the brightest and oldest globular clusters in the sky. With over 150,000 stars packed into a dense region, M2 offers a stunning view through binoculars and telescopes. Located about 37,500 light-years away in the northern sky, M2 is a fascinating glimpse into the universe’s ancient history, with stars that are nearly 13 billion years old.
How to Find M2 in New Zealand:
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Time: After sunset, look toward the northern sky.
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Guide: Begin with the Square of Pegasus. This distinct shape, easy to find in the evening, will help you navigate.
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Location: From the top left star of the Square of Pegasus, move slightly above and to the left. Using binoculars or a telescope, you should spot M2 as a faint, fuzzy object.
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Binoculars: M2 will appear as a soft, hazy spot.
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Telescope: If you have a telescope, you’ll be able to resolve its dense core and see individual stars twinkling in the cluster.
M2 is currently well-placed in the sky, making this a great time to take a look. With clear skies and some good equipment, you’ll be able to explore the ancient stars of this incredible globular cluster.
Let Us Know How You Go!
If you manage to find M2, or if you capture a photo, we’d love to hear about it! Feel free to share your experiences in the comments or tag us in your photos. We’re always excited to see how our followers are connecting with the wonders of the night sky.
Happy stargazing! ✨