M3 is one of more heavily studied globular clusters due
to its position in the galaxy, putting it far from
interstellar absorbtion. More than 200 variable stars
have been observed out of a total of near 50,000.
Being one of the brightest clusters, M3 is regarded 
as one of the most striking in the sky. A 6-inch 
scope will begin to reveal hundreds of its magnitude 
11 stars, while larger instruments may show arms or 
branches radiating from the sides.