M41 Open Cluster (aka NGC 2287)
Apparent Magnitude: 4.5
Distance: Aprox: 2,300 light-years
Constellation: Canis Major
Star Count: Aprox 100
Diameter: 25 light-years
M41 is a bright open star cluster and is very easy to find as it lies about 4 degrees south of Sirius. In clear, dark skies, it is visible to the naked eye. The cluster is relatively loose and can be resolved in a small telescope. It is best observed at low magnifications. Messier 41 contains several red giants and a number of white dwarfs. The brightest among the giant stars is a K3-type star with a visual magnitude of 6.3, visible near the centre of the cluster. The orange giant is about 700 times more luminous than the Sun.
Taken 1/5/19 in Grand Rapids Ohio by Russell Kille on a CPC 1100 with Hyperstar @ F2 and ZWO ASI294MC Pro camera