Credit: Armen Akopian
Astronomical and Imaging Data
| RA: | 18h 13m 38.80s |
| DEC: | -31° 49′ 36.8″ |
| MAG: | 8.55 |
| Diameter: | 6.2′ |
| Const: | Sgr |
| OTA | CCF RC 250mm f/8 |
| Focal Length | 2000mm |
| Camera | QHYCCD QHY268 Pro M |
| Site | Rockwood, TX, United States |
| Sky Quality | Bortle 1 |
Useful Informations
NGC 6569 is a globular cluster located in the constellation Sagittarius, situated in the obscured, dense central Galactic bulge of the Milky Way . It’s a key target for astronomers studying the formation and evolution of the inner galaxy due to its location and properties.
Physical Characteristics
- Age and Metallicity: NGC 6569 is an ancient cluster, estimated to be approximately 12.8 billion years old. Its stars are considered metal-poor, with a metallicity ([Fe/H]) of about -0.8, meaning their iron content is roughly 1/6th that of the Sun. This low metallicity is typical of old stellar populations that formed early in the universe’s history.
- Stellar Populations and Chemistry: The cluster is known to host multiple stellar populations, a common feature in most globular clusters. This is evidenced by a C-N anticorrelation in its stars, indicating at least two distinct generations of stars with differing chemical compositions. Additionally, the cluster shows an enhancement of alpha-elements (e.g., oxygen and magnesium), which is a chemical signature consistent with early enrichment by core-collapse supernovae.
- Structure: NGC 6569 is a highly concentrated cluster. Its dense core makes it a challenging but rewarding subject for studies of stellar dynamics and kinematics. It is significantly affected by interstellar dust and gas from its location in the Galactic bulge, which obscures its light and makes detailed observations difficult.