M71 is another Messier object that suffers from proximity to a more impressive member of that catalog. M27, the spectacular Dumbbell nebula, resides about 4 degrees to the north-northeast and gets much more attention from backyard observers. However, M71 is well worth a look. This small globular cluster splits the distance between 3.5 magnitude Gamma and 3.7 magnitude Delta Sagittae. Sagitta is visible from most rural locations as an arrow-shaped arrangement of stars sandwiched between Cygnus and Aquila. While in the area, seek out Brocchi's cluster. Also known as the Coat hanger, this cluster is on the map but not identified. Can you can find it?
| Summer Sky Tour: M71-Globular Cluster (Sagitta) RA: 19h 53.8m / DEC: +18° 46'.7 |
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Revised: February 14, 2002 [WDF]
M71 is moderately bright as globular clusters go, shining at 8.4 magnitude. My sketch records the view at 129X in the 10-inch Starfinder Newtonian. M71 appears circular, roughly 6' in diameter. Few stars are resolved but the central 4' zone is discernibly brighter. The brightest foreground stars are 10th magnitude. 65 field stars are captured to render the context of the view.