Astronomy: Messier 19 a globular cluster of stars

M19 is a typical globular cluster of stars, except for its shape. If you looks closely at the cluster, it appears to be longer (top to bottom) than it is wide. In fact, M19 is the most aspherical globular cluster of the approximately 160 known orbiting the center of our Milky Way Galaxy. The reason for the clusters' odd shape remains unknown, but might be related to the clusters' close (5.000 light years) proximity to the Galactic center. Alternatively, the shape might be an illusion created by an unusual lane of dark absorbing dust on one side of the cluster. M19 lies about 27.000 light years away, measures about 60 light years across, and contains over 100.000 stars. The cluster can be found towards the constellation of Ophiuchus and can be observed with binoculars. Related subjects >> Messier catalog of 110 deep sky objects >> Charles Messier

Globular star cluster M19