M2 is a difficult object for naked-eye observation and is not visible under normal conditions.
Messier Number: M2
NGC Number: NGC 7089
Object Type: Globular Cluster
Distance in Light Years: 36,000
Constellation: Aquarius
Apparent Magnitude: 6.5
With binoculars, it is an easy target as it is situated in a star-poor area. A 4-inch telescope only shows some of the brightest member stars spread over a mottled nebulous background caused by unresolved stars. However, with a 4-inch refractor, it is possible to see a dark curved feature crossing the north-eastern corner of the cluster. With an 8-inch telescope under good conditions, the cluster is partly resolved into stars. Larger telescopes, from 10-inch, are required to fully resolve the cluster and dark regions.
