Object Type | Open Cluster |
Constellation | Scutum |
Magnitude | 5.8 |
Size | 11.0' x 11.0' |
Located in Scutum, M11 is a beautiful and very compact open cluster of moderately bright stars, that is a fine object in the telescope. M11 is commonly known as the "Wild Duck" cluster as in a small telescope, the outline of the brighter stars resembles a flight of ducks.
The photograph above was taken during the total phase of the lunar eclipse of July 16, 2000. This eclipse was one of the longest ever and was also very dark, enabling plenty of time for deep-sky viewing as well as for the eclipse!