C108
NGC 4372
Properties
Position & Identifiers
Visibility
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About C108
Description
NGC 4372 is a large, sparse globular cluster in Musca, about 18,900 light-years away. It spans about 19 arcminutes and appears partially obscured by the nearby dark nebula known as the Dark Doodad, creating a striking visual contrast.
Observing Tips
Visible as a faint, large, granular glow in a 6-inch telescope. Its sparse nature makes resolution relatively easy. The Dark Doodad nebula nearby adds visual interest to the field. Best from southern latitudes in autumn.
History
Discovered by James Dunlop on April 4, 1826 from Australia. The cluster is notable for its low concentration and large angular size, making it an easy target for resolution.
Fun Facts
The Dark Doodad, a narrow dark nebula about 3 degrees long, passes near NGC 4372 and makes for one of the more photogenic pairings of a globular cluster with a dark nebula in the southern sky.
Community Photos (1)
Credit: Donald Pelletier. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. (Wikimedia Commons)
Skybred Mar 2, 2026