Centaurus
Where is Centaurus?
Below the horizon from London all the time.
- Rises
- Never
- Highest
- —
- Sets
- —
- Best after dark
- —
How to find Centaurus
Nearby constellations include Crux, Circinus, Musca and Lupus.
Its center is at right ascension 13h 10m, declination −48°. 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 Centaurus
Centaurus is highest in the evening sky, around 10 pm, in May. 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 16° N to 90° S.
Centaurus never rises from London: it is too far south in the sky for this latitude.
This is position and timing only: clouds, haze and light pollution aren’t included.
Seeing Centaurus
Eyes
Its brightest star, undefined, is easy to see. Tracing the whole pattern is easier away from bright lights.
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
Centaurus (genitive Centauri, abbreviated Cen) is one of the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union, which together cover the whole sky.
SkyMate’s web catalog includes 3 named stars in Centaurus.
Brightest stars and objects in Centaurus
Questions
When is Centaurus visible?
Can I see Centaurus from where I live?
Sources: IAU; Wikidata (CC0); SkyMate. Positions computed for your place and time with astronomy-engine. Data & Licences