
Currently well placed for observing is the beautiful double cluster in Perseus, properly known as NGC 869 & 884. This area is rich in open clusters and wonderful chains of stars, well worth a browse with binoculars or a low power eyepiece.
They also come out incredibly well on relatively short exposure photos, such as the one below taken on the 18th October 2007. This is an average of 4 x 2 minute exposures at ISO 400, at prime focus of my 6" f/5.
The clusters are a few hundred light-years appart, at a distance of over 7000 light years from us. They are both quite young at 5.6 and 3.2 million years old.
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