M35 in Gemini and NGC2168

Messier 35 or M35, also known as NGC 2168, is a relatively close open cluster of stars in the west of Gemini, at about the declination of the sun when the latter is at June solstice. It was discovered by Philippe Loys de Chéseaux around 1745 and independently discovered by John Bevis before 1750. It is scattered over part of the sky almost the size of the full moon and is 2,970 light-years (912 parsecs) away.  The compact open cluster NGC 2158 lies directly southwest of it.

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M35 is a relatively close open cluster of stars in the west of Gemini, at about the declination of the sun when the latter is at June solstice. I have observed M35 Multiple times over the years. Most recently while out at Crawling Valley Campground in September 2023,  I captured the above feature image that shows this open cluster and its nearby dimmer neighbor. It’s a favourite stopping point at the foot of Gemini which happens to be the Logo of The Blue Grid AB Ltd.

It’s easily spotted with most small scopes on a dark night, to see 2168, usually you have to take a picture to get it to show up.

Previously I shared the image below.

Keywords: M35, Gemini, open cluster, Messier