M28    NGC6626   Globular  Cluster, AlBroxton

M28 NGC6626 Globular Cluster

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Description

Messier 28 (also known as M28 or NGC6626) is a globular cluster in the constellation Sagittarius. It was discovered by Charles Messier in 1764. In the sky it is very close to the 3rd magnitude star Kaus Borealis. M28 is at a distance of about 18,000 to 19,000 light-years away from Earth. 18 RR Lyrae type variable stars have been observed in this cluster. In 1986, M28 became the first globular cluster where a millisecond pulsar was discovered (by the Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank Observatory). It lies about 19,000 light-years from Earth and has a diameter of around 75 light-years. This cluster's visual magnitude of 6.8 makes it a fine site in any optical instrument. A small telescope will reveal the cluster's slight oval shape. Some have even said it somewhat resembles a cucumber.

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M28    NGC6626   Globular  Cluster, AlBroxton