M2

M2 is a rich, compact globular cluster in Aquarius, about 37,500 light-years from Earth. It contains roughly 150,000 stars packed into a sphere about 175 light-years across, making it one of the larger globular clusters associated with the Milky Way. The cluster is notable for its high concentration — stars near the core are packed extremely tightly.

Located about 5 degrees north of Beta Aquarii (Sadalsuud). Appears as a fuzzy star in binoculars. A 4-inch telescope at 100x shows a bright, round glow with a concentrated core. An 8-inch telescope begins to resolve individual stars at the edges. The cluster rewards higher magnification (150-200x) in larger scopes. Best observed from August through October.

Discovered by Jean-Dominique Maraldi in 1746 while observing a comet. Charles Messier independently found it in 1760 and described it as a nebula without stars. William Herschel was the first to resolve it into stars in 1783.