Chamaeleon
Where is Chamaeleon?
Below the horizon from London all the time.
- Rises
- Never
- Highest
- —
- Sets
- —
- Best after dark
- —
How to find Chamaeleon
Nearby constellations include Musca, Octans and Carina.
Its center is at right ascension 10h 45m, declination −80°. 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 Chamaeleon
Chamaeleon is highest in the evening sky, around 10 pm, in April. 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 0° N to 90° S.
Chamaeleon 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 Chamaeleon
Eyes
Its stars are fairly faint (the brightest, its alpha star, is mag 4.0). 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
Chamaeleon (genitive Chamaeleontis, abbreviated Cha) is one of the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union, which together cover the whole sky.
Questions
When is Chamaeleon visible?
Can I see Chamaeleon from where I live?
Sources: IAU; Wikidata (CC0); SkyMate. Positions computed for your place and time with astronomy-engine. Data & Licences