Messier 70 or M70, also known as NGC 6681, is a globular cluster of stars to be found in the south of Sagittarius. It was discovered by Charles Messier in 1780. The famous comet Hale–Bopp was discovered near this cluster in 1995.
Globular cluster Messier 70 by Hubble Space Telescope; 3.3′ view
Image by Hubble Space Telescope
Comet Hale–Bopp is a comet that was one of the most widely observed of the 20th century and one of the brightest seen for many decades.
Comet Hale–Bopp, shortly after passing perihelion in April 1997
The comet became a spectacular sight in early 1997.
Comet Hale–Bopp in 2001, at a distance of nearly two billion kilometres from the Sun. Credit: ESO