Wild Duck Cluster

The Wild Duck Cluster (M11-NGC 6705)
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)
Constellation	Scutum
Right ascension	18h 51.1m
Declination	−06° 16′
Distance	6,200 ly (1,900 pc)
Apparent magnitude (V)	6.3
Apparent dimensions (V)	14.0′
Physical characteristics
Estimated age	220 million years
Other designations	Messier 11, NGC 6705
See also: Open cluster, List of open clusters

The Wild Duck Cluster (also known as Messier 11, or NGC 6705) is an open cluster in the constellation Scutum. It was discovered by Gottfried Kirch in 1681. Charles Messier included it in his catalogue in 1764.

The Wild Duck Cluster is one of the richest and most compact of the known open clusters, containing about 2900 stars. Its age has been estimated to about 250 million years. Its name derives from the brighter stars forming a triangle which could resemble a flying flock of ducks (or, from other angles, one swimming duck).

The blue stars in the centre of the image are the young, hot stars of the cluster.

M11 is visible with binoculars towards the constellation of Scutum.

Coordinates: 18^h 51.1^m 00^s, −06° 16′ 00″