Capricornus
Where is Capricornus?
Look south, about 20° up at 21:05.
- Rises
- 16:42
- Highest
- 21:06
- Sets
- 01:31
- Best after dark
- 21:05 · 20°
How to find Capricornus
Nearby constellations include Microscopium, Piscis Austrinus and Aquarius.
Its center is at right ascension 21h 03m, declination −19°. Use the chart above: north is up and east is to the left, as when you face south from the Northern Hemisphere.
Best time to see Capricornus
Capricornus is highest in the evening sky, around 10 pm, in September. A month or two either side it is still well placed, earlier or later in the night. All of it rises above the horizon from latitudes of about 56° N to 90° S.
From London tonight, Capricornus is above the horizon after dark. It’s highest after dark at 21:05, in the south at 20°.
This is position and timing only: clouds, haze and light pollution aren’t included.
Seeing Capricornus
Eyes
Its stars are fairly faint (the brightest, its alpha star, is mag 2.8). You’ll need a sky away from bright lights to trace the pattern.
Binoculars
Binoculars show many more stars than your eye, and bring out star clusters and brighter nebulae inside it.
Telescope
The constellation is far too large for a telescope’s view. Use one for the clusters, nebulae and galaxies inside it.
About
Capricornus (genitive Capricorni, abbreviated Cap) is one of the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union, which together cover the whole sky.
SkyMate’s web catalog includes 1 named star and 1 deep-sky object in Capricornus.
Brightest stars and objects in Capricornus
Questions
When is Capricornus visible?
Can I see Capricornus from where I live?
Sources: IAU; Wikidata (CC0); SkyMate. Positions computed for your place and time with astronomy-engine. Data & Licences