Open Cluster M41

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Open Cluster M41 (also known as Messier Object 41, Messier 41, M41, or NGC 2287) is an open cluster in the Canis Major constellation. It was discovered by Giovanni Batista Hodierna before 1654 and was perhaps known to Aristotle about 325 BC. M41 is lying about 4 degrees nearly exactly south of Sirius and contains about 100 stars. Among these are several red giants, the brightest being spectral type K3, and located near its center. The cluster is estimated to be moving away from us at 34 km/sec. The diameter of the cluster is between 25 and 26 light years long. Its age is estimated at between 190 and 240 million years old. M41 may also be referred to as NGC 2287.