M45. The Pleiades. Subaru. The Seven Sisters. This open cluster has been admired since ancient times, from China to Greece. The nine named stars in this cluster burn blue and hot because of their relative youth (approximately 100 million years old), illuminating the nebulous dust that flows through the region. However, This open cluster, which is 444 light years away, contains over a thousand stars. Long ago, warriors tested their vision on these beauties by attempting to discern the seven brightest stars. Indeed, the majestic clouds of M45 would be something worth fighting for.
Acquisition Date: November 25, 2020–November 26, 2020
Acquisition Site: St. Helena, CA
Image Details: 223 x 60s (3h 43m)
Equipment: ZWO ASI2600MC-Pro, Takahashi FSQ-106EDXIII, Losmandy G11, Lumicon Deep-Sky Filter 2″