M62
Flickering Globular
Object Data
- Catalog Designation
- M62
- Type
- GlobularCluster
- Constellation
- Ophiuchus
- Magnitude
- 6.5
- Right Ascension
- 17h 01m 12.6s
- Declination
- -30° 06' 44.5"
- Distance
- 22,200 light-years
- Angular Size
- 14.1
Survey Image
Loading survey image…
About M62
Description
M62 is a bright, asymmetric globular cluster in Ophiuchus, about 22,500 light-years from Earth. It is one of the most irregularly shaped globular clusters in the Messier catalog, with its dense core noticeably offset from the cluster's geometric center. This asymmetry is likely caused by its close passages near the galactic center, only about 6,100 light-years away.
Observing Tips
Located about 5 degrees south-southeast of Antares, in the rich Milky Way near the galactic center. In binoculars it appears as a small, bright, round patch. A 4-inch telescope shows a bright, concentrated core with a hint of asymmetry. An 8-inch telescope at high magnification resolves stars at the edges and reveals the off-center core. Best observed from June through August.
History
Discovered by Charles Messier on June 7, 1771, but not accurately positioned until June 1, 1779. Its proximity to the galactic center exposes it to strong tidal forces that shape its unusual appearance.
Fun Facts
M62 contains the most X-ray sources of any globular cluster — at least 50 — indicating numerous close binary star systems, neutron stars, and other exotic objects. The intense stellar crowding near the galactic center creates frequent gravitational encounters that form these interacting systems.
Community Photos (1)
Credit: Credit: ESA/Hubble & NASA, S. Anderson et al.. License: CC BY 4.0. (Wikimedia Commons)
Skybred Feb 28, 2026