Messier 34, also known as M34, is an open star cluster located in the constellation of Perseus. It was discovered by the French astronomer Jean-Marie Méchain in 1783 and later included in the Messier catalog by Charles Messier. The cluster is approximately 1,500 light-years away from Earth and contains around 100 stars. M34 is notable for its relatively young age, estimated to be about 200 million years. The stars in this cluster are loosely bound by gravity, making it easier to observe individual stars. It is best viewed with binoculars or small telescopes, appearing as a faint patch of light in the night sky.