NGC 7082 is an open star cluster set against the rich star fields of the constellation Cygnus, making it a rewarding target for wide-field astrophotography. With an apparent magnitude of 7.2 and an angular size of 23′, it spreads across a generous patch of sky that pairs beautifully with short to moderate focal lengths. Its relatively loose structure and the dense surrounding Milky Way backdrop reward long integration times that bring out faint field stars and subtle color contrasts between the cluster members. Because it sits in one of the most star-saturated regions of the northern sky, careful framing helps this cluster stand out from the crowd of foreground and background stars.
Names and Catalog numbers
- NGC 7082
Position and the cosmic neighborhood
NGC 7082 is located in Cygnus, the Swan, at a right ascension of 21h 28m 44.6s and a declination of +47° 06′ 11″, placing it firmly within the luminous band of the summer Milky Way. This part of the sky is crowded with open clusters, dark nebulae, and glowing star clouds, so imagers will find plenty of complementary targets nearby for mosaic or wide-field projects. Its high northern declination keeps it well placed for observers across the northern hemisphere, riding high overhead during the warm months. At an estimated distance of 4,700 light-years, its stars are part of the same spiral arm structure that gives Cygnus its densely packed stellar appearance.
Nice to Know
- Despite an inviting overall brightness of 7.2 mag, its light is spread across 23′, giving it a modest surface brightness of about 22.7 mag/arcsec² that rewards patient exposure.
- The cluster spans roughly 32 light-years across, a compact stellar family embedded in the Milky Way of Cygnus.
- Its slightly negative radial velocity of about -15 km/s means it is drifting toward us, a subtle motion reflected in its tiny negative redshift.
- Set within one of the densest star fields of the northern sky, it is an ideal subject for wide-field astrophotographers who enjoy layered, star-rich compositions.
Brightness, distance and size
The object has an apparent magnitude of 7.2 mag, it lies about 4,700 light-years from Earth and spans roughly 32 light-years across. On the sky it appears about 23′ in size.
