Messier 12 is a globular cluster located in the constellation Ophiuchus. It is approximately 23,000 light-years away from Earth and contains hundreds of thousands of stars, tightly packed together. This cluster is about 75 light-years in diameter and is estimated to be around 13 billion years old. Discovered by Charles Messier in 1764, Messier 12 is designated as M12 in the Messier catalog. It is notable for its relatively high concentration of stars and its distinct, spherical shape. Observers can view it with binoculars or small telescopes, appearing as a fuzzy patch in the night sky.