M44, also known as “Praesepe” or the “Beehive Cluster” (other designations: NGC 2632, Cr 189) is a well known open star cluster which can be quite easily observed with the naked eye in the center of the constellation Cancer.
The most suitable time for observing this cluster in northern latitudes is between February and May.
This cluster is one of the nearest open clusters in relation to our own Solar system and lies at a distance of 577 light years.
The age of the cluster is estimated at about 730 million years.
Other versions
Previous/older images:
Feb 08, 2008 – Canon 350D (80mm TMB-1h)
Object info
| Name | M44 – Praesepe |
| Type | Open cluster |
| Constellation | Cancer |
| Right ascension | 08h 40m 24s |
| Declination | +19° 41′ 00″ |
| Distance | 577 ly |
| Other designations | NGC2632, Cr189 |
Image info
Equipment info
Image comments
