Globular Star Cluster M-107 (NGC 6171)

Description of M-107 in The Deep Sky Field Guide to Uranometria 2000 (c) Willmann-Bell, Inc.:

Brightest stars = magnitude 13.0;
horizontal branch stars magnitude = 15.6




P. Mechain (April, 1782): 'I discovered a small nebula on the left flank of Ophiuchus......'

W. Smyth: 'A large but pale granulated cluster of small stars. Five stars around it in a form of a crucifix....... After long gazing becomes more compressed in the center.'

K. G. Jones's "Messier's Nebulae & Star Clusters": 'M-107 is rather small and faint at first sight but rapidly improves with closer attention. The outline seems a little irregular but can be seen to extend to six arc minutes from a distinct but not quite sharp center.'

Distance estimate: 20 thousand light years. (But Click here for the latest news on Globular Star Cluster distances and ages!!)

• M-107, NGC 6171
• Magnitude: 8.1
• Constellation: Ophiuchus
• RA: 16h 32m 30.0s
• Dec: -13° 03' 00" Epoch 2000
• Size (mins) 10.0
• Classification: Globular Cluster
  

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George Normandin, KAS

October 2nd, 2001