Globular cluster M12, in the constellation
Ophiuchus, is nearly a twin of M10. It is just a bit fainter and
only slightly larger. Like its twin, it does not contain a lot
of variable stars. M12 lies at a distance of 18,000 light-years
from Earth and has a diameter of about 75 light-years. Visually
it is a fairly remarkable sight. Its visual magnitude of 6.6
makes it an easy target to find with binoculars, and a telescope
will bring out its slightly irregular shape.
