Fornax
Where is Fornax?
Low in the south, at most 7° up around 02:52.
- Rises
- 00:06
- Highest
- 02:53
- Sets
- 05:40
- Best after dark
- 02:52 · 7°
How to find Fornax
Nearby constellations include Eridanus, Horologium and Cetus.
Its center is at right ascension 2h 51m, declination −31°. 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 Fornax
Fornax is highest in the evening sky, around 10 pm, in December. 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 44° N to 90° S.
From London tonight, Fornax stays low while the sky is dark: at best 7° above the south horizon around 02:52. You’ll need a clear, flat view in that direction.
This is position and timing only: clouds, haze and light pollution aren’t included.
Seeing Fornax
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
Fornax (genitive Fornacis, abbreviated For) is one of the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union, which together cover the whole sky.
Questions
When is Fornax visible?
Can I see Fornax from where I live?
Sources: IAU; Wikidata (CC0); SkyMate. Positions computed for your place and time with astronomy-engine. Data & Licences