Object Analysis

The Wild Duck Cluster (Messier 11) is an open cluster in the constellation Scutum. It was discovered by Gottfried Kirch in 1681. Popularly known as the Wild Duck Cluster for the brighter stars that form a triangle resembling a flock of flying ducks, it is one of the richest and most compact of the known open clusters.

Containing about 2,900 stars, M11 is so dense that it can easily be mistaken for a loose globular cluster in binoculars. It is located about 6,200 light-years away and is roughly 220 million years old.

The cluster is located against the rich star clouds of the Scutum Shield, one of the brightest parts of the Milky Way. This backdrop makes M11 a stunning sight in wide-field telescopes, appearing as a knot of glitter against a velvet background.