NGC 6664 | |
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![]() NGC 6664 | |
Observation data | |
Right ascension | 18h 37m 56s |
Declination | -08° 11’ 52” |
Distance | 4892 ly (1.5kpc [1] ) |
Apparent magnitude (V) | 7.8 |
Apparent dimensions (V) | 12′ |
Physical characteristics | |
Mass | 2000 [2] M☉ |
Estimated age | 20 million years |
Other designations | OCL 68, C 1834-082, Herschel 354 [3] , Melotte 209, Cr 385, Santa's Sleigh Cluster, Teacup Cluster [4] |
Associations | |
Constellation | Scutum |
NGC 6664 is an open cluster in Scutum. [5] It has a magnitude of 7.8, and is visible with binoculars or a small telescope under good conditions. [6] It is located near NGC 6649. Due to its location in the galactic plane, it can be difficult to distinguish from the fainter background stars. [7]
It was discovered on June 16, 1784 by William Herschel, [8] and later observed by his son, John Herschel. [9] NGC 6664 is home to 16 Cepheid variable stars. 11 are B type, the remaining five are red giants. [10]