NGC 3766 (OC)
| R.A. | Dec. | Size | Mag | SB | Cnt.St | Type | Distance | Chart |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11h 36m 20.0s | -61° 37′ 08.7″ | 15.0′ | 5.3 | 10.9 | I1p | OC | -- | -- |
Background
NGC 3766 is the “Pearl Cluster” — a bright, rich open cluster about 5,800 light-years away in Centaurus. Contains hot blue giants and several Be-type variable stars; the cluster is around 14 million years old.
My Observing Notes
30-cm (SkyWatcher 12-inch f/5): Use α Crucis (Acrux) and IC 2602 to find α Cen which is the brightest star between them — together they form a very flat triangle. In the finderscope follow the chain of 5 bright stars which lead directly to the cluster. In the eyepiece NGC 3766 is framed nicely by a triangle of bright stars to the left and 2 bright stars to the right. The cluster itself is dense and stands out even in the rich starfield. Two orange-yellow stars in the centre catch the eye, and 2 chains of stars create a “path” through the core. A beautiful view, worth coming back to.(10 April 2026)
References
Charts
