M 24 is an odd entry in Messier's list, because it is not a single object
at all. Instead, it is a chance opening in the interstellar dust which usually
blocks much of the light from distant stars. Through this window, we are seeing
a section of one of our galaxy's arms with particular clarity. This bright patch
in the Milky Way is visible to the unaided eye well above the "teapot" of Sagittarius.
M 24 is 1 1/2 degrees long, about the size of 6 full moons placed side-by-side.

There are several interesting objects visible within the area of M 24 in this image.
On the right side is the red emission nebula IC 1283-1284, and the two associated
blue reflection nebulae NGC 6589 and 6590. The comet-like dark patch near the middle
is Bernard 93, and the broader patch above it is Bernard 92, both examples of obscuring
dust clouds. Finally, just below the center of the image and within the bright patch of
M 24 is the small open cluster NGC 6603.
Image Data:
Camera: Canon 350 XT (modified)
Exposure: 1 minute x 30
Telescope: William Optics 66mm ZS, 0.8x reducer / field flattener