Space Walk: Star Clusters M46 and M47

M46 and M47 are two large and bright star clusters in the constellation Puppis. This constellation never gets very high in the sky in the north temperate latitudes, so you have to catch it in the dead of winter. But you will be rewarded with many gems, including these two wonderful open clusters.

Link to the mp3 audio file. Download the file to the device you will be using to listen to it in the field.

M46 and M47 Space Walk Among the Stars - audio

Images of M46 and M47 taken by amateur astronomers.

Charts to accompany the Space Walk. Review these prior to observing with your telescope.

Chart 1: Finding the general area in the sky

Chart 2: Finding the objects

Chart 3: Spacebird's-eye view of the objects. Looking away from the galaxy's center.

Chart adapted from Our Galaxy 2.0.

Chart 4: Objects in galaxy face-on view.

Chart adapted from Our Galaxy 2.0.