About NGC 6218 (M12)

NGC 6218 is frequently observed by amateur astronomers and appears as a soft glow. It has moderate brightness.

Current visibility

It is currently below the horizon.

It stays above 30° for roughly 8 hours.

Observing conditions matter, fine detail requires darker skies.

Observing tips

It can be challenging under typical skies.

What to expect

Under good conditions, the object reveals more character.

Type

Globular Cluster

Constellation

Ophiucus

Distance

16000 ly

Size

12.2'

Season

Summer

Difficulty

Moderate

Magnitude

6.7