NGC 1049 is a globular cluster located in the Milky Way galaxy, specifically in the constellation Tucana. It is situated approximately 4.5 million light-years from Earth and is part of the Fornax constellation. This cluster is notable for its high concentration of stars, which are tightly packed together, making it a fascinating object for astronomers. Discovered in 1826 by James Dunlop, NGC 1049 is one of the many globular clusters that orbit the Milky Way. It contains several hundred thousand stars, primarily older, red giants. The cluster's age is estimated to be around 12 billion years, providing valuable insights into the early formation of the universe.