NGC 2243 is an open star cluster located in the constellation of Monoceros. 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 John Herschel in 1834, NGC 2243 is notable for its bright and colorful stars, which are primarily of spectral types B and A. The cluster spans about 20 light-years across and is part of the Milky Way galaxy, contributing to our understanding of stellar formation and evolution.