M34

Alt. Designations: NGC 1039
Object Type: Open Cluster
Constellation: Perseus
Distance: 1.4 kly
Right Ascension: 02h 42m 05.0s
Declination: +42° 45´ 42"
Visual Magnitude: 5.2
Apparent Dimension: 25.0´ Dia.
Best Month To View: Nov

M34 is an open cluster of about 100 stars located in the constellation Perseus. The cluster lies about 1,400 light-years from Earth and is believed to be about 190 million years old. The brightest star in the group has a visual magnitude of 7.9, which makes it a bright and easy target for viewing. M34 is visible to the naked eye, and its apparent diameter is nearly that of the full moon. Binoculars and small telescopes with a wide field of view are recommended for this object.