NGC 2144 is an open star cluster located in the constellation of Monoceros, which is also known as the Unicorn. It was discovered by the astronomer William Herschel in 1784. This cluster is approximately 4,000 light-years away from Earth and contains several hundred stars that are relatively young, with ages estimated around 100 million years. The stars in NGC 2144 are loosely bound by gravity and are spread over a region about 20 light-years in diameter. The cluster is not very bright, making it challenging to observe without a telescope. It is best viewed in the winter months when Monoceros is prominent in the night sky.