VISTA infrared image of the globular star cluster Messier 55

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This striking view of the globular star cluster Messier 55 in the constellation of Sagittarius (The Archer) was obtained in infrared light with the VISTA survey telescope at ESO’s Paranal Observatory in Chile. This vast ball of ancient stars is located at a distance of about 17 000 light-years from Earth.

Credit:

ESO/J. Emerson/VISTA. Acknowledgment: Cambridge Astronomical Survey Unit

Usage of ESO Images and Videos

About the Image

Id:	eso1220a
Type:	Observation
Release date:	9 May 2012, 12:00
Related releases:	eso1220
Size:	3000 x 3000 px

About the Object

Name:	Messier 55
Type:	• Milky Way : Star : Grouping : Cluster : Globular • Star Clusters
Distance:	17000 light years

Coordinates

Position (RA):	19h 39m 59.74s
Position (Dec):	-30° 57' 53.04"
Field of view:	17.05 x 17.05 arcminutes
Orientation:	North is 0.0° left of vertical