NGC 4755
The Jewel Box Cluster


Combination of 2, 1 minute exposures, Meade 416XT CCD.
8" f/6 newtonian at prime focus.

Situated less than 1 degree to the east of the bright star beta crucis, the famous Jewel Box cluster is a superb object in the telescope. It is a compact and rich cluster with a deep orange star near the centre. The brighter stars form an "A" shape, with numerous fainter stars acting as a backdrop. Since it is a small cluster, moderate magnification can be used when observing it, which helps darken the sky background, and rendering the view all the more beautiful.