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C98

NGC 4609

Open Cluster Excellent (68/100)
C98 OpenCluster Crux Visible Level 1 Naked eye / Binoculars - Wide field preferred
Credit: Roberto Mura. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. (Wikimedia Commons)
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Properties

Magnitude 6.9
Angular Size 5.4′
Distance 4200 ly
Open Cluster [Distance: 4200 ly]

Position & Identifiers

RA 12h 42m 17.8s
Dec -62° 59' 49.2"
Constellation Crux
Catalog C98

Visibility

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About C98

Description

NGC 4609 is a small open cluster in Crux, about 4,200 light-years away. It contains about 40 stars within 5 arcminutes and lies just northwest of the Coalsack Nebula (C99), partially projected against the dark cloud.

Observing Tips

A compact, moderately rich cluster visible in a 4-inch telescope. Its proximity to the Coalsack Nebula creates a striking contrast between the bright cluster and the dark background. Best from southern latitudes in autumn and winter.

History

Discovered by James Dunlop in 1826 from Australia. Its position against the Coalsack makes it a popular target when observing the famous dark nebula.

Fun Facts

NGC 4609 appears to overlap with the Coalsack Nebula, but the cluster lies far beyond the dark cloud. The juxtaposition creates one of the finest examples of a bright cluster seen against a conspicuously dark background.

Community Photos (1)

Credit: Roberto Mura. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. (Wikimedia Commons)

Credit: Roberto Mura. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. (Wikimedia Commons)

Skybred Mar 2, 2026