M 26 is an open cluster 6,355 light-years away, in Scutum: a family of stars born together that still travel together.
Fly there in 3D| Also known as | NGC 6694, Melotte 212, Collinder 389, MWSC 2987, OCL 67, FSR 0071, FoF 69 |
| Type | Open cluster |
| Distance | 6,355 light-years |
| Radius | 14 light-years |
| Constellation | Scutum |
| Position (J2000) | RA 281.3168°, Dec -9.3900° |
The light you see left 6,355 years ago, around 4300 BC. Its stars were born together and still move together through the Milky Way's disc.
In galaxy mode, search for it on the map or follow the link above: the autopilot flies there. The cluster is drawn at its catalogued place and size; its individual stars are illustrative.