Vela used to belong to the constellation Argo Navis, before it was split up into three parts by Nicolas-Louis Lacaille in the 18th Century.

Vela lies over a rich sectin of the Milky Way and has more than its fair share of clusters.

Starting on the far right is NGC 2547, an open cluster with perhaps 80 occupants. It is best seen through a pair af binoculars.

Next we have just to the left, IC 2391, a naked eye open cluste of about 50 stars that lays about 500 light years away.

Next to IC 2391 is the open cluster NGC 2669. This is best viewed through binoculars.

Almost on the left side is the globular cluster NGC 3201. At 7th magnitude a telescope, and preferably a large one is required to view it.

Finally moving upwards to the top left is the planetary nebula NGC 3132. This is a fine nebula with a diameter greater than that of Jupiter. A large telescope is required for a good view.