NGC 288

NGC 288 is a globular cluster located in the constellation of Sculptor, at a distance of more than 29.000 light-years. It was observed for the first time by William Herschel in 1785, using a 47,5 cm reflector. It shines with an apparent magnitude of +9,4.

NGC 288 has a relatively low star density, and most stars are very old, 12-13 billion years old. The cluster has an eccentric orbit around Milky Way, with which it intersects each time it orbits it, losing stars as a consequence. The gravitational interactions created 2 stellar tidal streams, but also a ring of stars that encircles the cluster.