M53 - Globular Cluster
M53 is a globular cluster in Coma Berenices, one of the more distant clusters visible in amateur telescopes. It appears near the star Diadem.
Distance: 58,000 light-years
Apparent Magnitude: 7.60
Apparent Size: 13'
Constellation: Coma Berenices
Object Type: Globular Cluster (Class V)
Key Features:
- One of more distant globulars
- ~500,000 stars
- Age: 12.7 billion years
- 220 light-years diameter
- Near NGC 5053 (fainter companion)
Best Imaging Season: March - June
Optimal Integration: 5+ hours
