NGC 2131 is a bright open star cluster located in the constellation of Hydra. It is approximately 2,000 light-years away from Earth and contains several hundred stars. The cluster is estimated to be around 100 million years old, making it relatively young in astronomical terms. Discovered by the astronomer John Herschel in 1834, NGC 2131 is notable for its rich concentration of stars and its relatively high brightness. Observations of this cluster can provide insights into stellar formation and evolution, contributing to our understanding of the life cycles of stars in the universe.