Menu

Owl Cluster

NGC 457

Open Cluster Excellent (70/100)
C13 OpenCluster Cassiopeia Visible Level 1 Naked eye / Binoculars - Wide field preferred
Credit: Chuck Ayoub. License: CC0. (Wikimedia Commons)
Star Map Add to List Add to Plan
Back to Catalog

Properties

Magnitude 6.4
Angular Size 7.8′
Distance 7900 ly
Open Cluster [Distance: 7900 ly]

Position & Identifiers

RA 01h 19m 30.0s
Dec +58° 19' 58.8"
Constellation Cassiopeia
Catalog C13

Visibility

Set a location in User Settings to see visibility data.

Survey Image

Loading survey image…

About Owl Cluster

Description

The Owl Cluster (NGC 457) is a bright open cluster in Cassiopeia, about 7,900 light-years away. It features two bright stars that form the "eyes" of an owl with wings spread, giving it its popular name. The cluster spans about 13 arcminutes.

Observing Tips

One of the most delightful open clusters for beginners. Even a small telescope reveals the owl pattern clearly. The bright star Phi Cassiopeiae marks one eye. Best at 40-60x to frame the entire figure. Circumpolar and best in autumn.

History

Discovered by William Herschel in 1787. Also known as the E.T. Cluster because some observers see the outline of the movie character E.T. instead of an owl.

Fun Facts

Whether Phi Cassiopeiae (the bright yellow star forming one eye) is actually a cluster member or a foreground star is debated. If it is a member, it would be one of the most luminous supergiants known.

Community Photos (1)

Credit: Chuck Ayoub. License: CC0. (Wikimedia Commons)

Credit: Chuck Ayoub. License: CC0. (Wikimedia Commons)

Skybred Mar 2, 2026