M 44 - Praesepe
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This very open cluster is exactly at the center of the Cancer constellation. And it's in the middle of the four central star of the costellation, visible in the image. M44 is also named Behive clister because of the many stars that resemble a swarm of bees. Another name for this cluster is Manger, because of the proximity of Asellus Borealis e Asellus Australis, two stars whose names mean donkey.

See also:

Technical Data
Optics Photographical objective
Focal Lenght 200 mm
Focal Ratio f/5,6
Exposure Time 30 min exposure
Film Kodak PJ-400
Developement sensibility 400 ISO
Location Piani dell'Avaro (BG, on the Italian Alps) at 1700m
Date and time of exposure start 24 december 2000, 3.00 UT
Mount Meade 8"
Tracking ST4
Notes -

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