Observer's guide
About Polarissima Cluster
Polarissima Cluster (C1) is catalogued as an open cluster in Cepheus. Its J2000 position is RA 00:44:24, Dec +85:07:60, corresponding to 11.7979 degrees RA and 85.2439 degrees Dec. The local catalogue places it about 4,800 light-years away. Its referenced angular extent is approximately 32.6 by 32.6 arcminutes.
Observing tips
StarWatchr rates this as a moderate target at magnitude 8.1. It is associated with autumn observing, with midnight placement typically strongest around September. From 52 degrees north its theoretical meridian altitude is about 56.8 degrees; local horizons and the live altitude chart determine the practical window.
A small telescope under reasonably dark skies is a good starting point; use the live altitude chart to choose its highest point.
What to expect
The SIMBAD classification for the matched source is OpC. A published radial velocity value is -42 km/s. The SIMBAD record currently connects it to 1004 bibliographic references.
Its roughly 32.6 arcminute span suits a medium field of view. Use the listed 32.6 by 32.6 arcminute extent to check framing, and treat catalogue magnitude as integrated brightness rather than a direct measure of visual contrast.
