M72 | NGC 6981 | Globular Cluster | Aquarius | 54,570 Light Years Away
Messier 72 is a globular star cluster located in the Aquarius constellation, and it was first observed by the French astronomer Pierre Méchain in 1780. Later, Charles Messier included it in his catalog, solidifying its designation as Messier 72. Positioned about 54,000 light-years away from Earth, this celestial assembly is part of the Milky Way galaxy.
Comprising hundreds of thousands of stars, Messier 72 exhibits a concentrated core where stars are densely packed due to gravitational forces. The stars within this globular cluster are quite old, with an estimated age exceeding 13 billion years. As is typical for globular clusters, Messier 72 lacks the distinct spiral arms seen in some other types of galaxies, presenting a spherical and symmetrical structure.
Observations of Messier 72 contribute to our understanding of globular clusters, providing insights into the dynamics and evolution of stars in these ancient stellar communities. The study of globular clusters helps astronomers unravel the complexities of galactic evolution and offers clues about the conditions prevailing in the early universe. Messier 72, with its distinct characteristics and position in the Aquarius constellation, adds to the ongoing exploration of globular clusters within the vast cosmic landscape.