Messier 36, also known as M36, is an open star cluster located in the constellation Auriga. It was discovered by the French astronomer Charles Messier in 1764 and is approximately 4,100 light-years away from Earth. The cluster contains around 60 stars, with its brightest members being of spectral type B, which are hot and blue. M36 is part of a trio of open clusters in Auriga, along with Messier 37 and Messier 38. It spans about 15 light-years across and is estimated to be around 25 million years old. The cluster is best viewed with binoculars or small telescopes, showcasing a beautiful array of stars against the night sky.