Perseus
Where is Perseus?
Look south, about 84° up at 03:25.
- Rises
- Always up
- Highest
- 03:28
- Sets
- Never
- Best after dark
- 03:25 · 84°
How to find Perseus
Nearby constellations include Triangulum, Cassiopeia, Camelopardalis and Andromeda.
Its center is at right ascension 3h 25m, declination +45°. 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 Perseus
Perseus 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 90° N to 26° S.
From London tonight, Perseus is above the horizon all night. It’s highest after dark at 03:25, in the south at 84°.
This is position and timing only: clouds, haze and light pollution aren’t included.
Seeing Perseus
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
Perseus (genitive Persei, abbreviated Per) is one of the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union, which together cover the whole sky.
SkyMate’s web catalog includes 2 named stars and 3 deep-sky objects in Perseus.
Brightest stars and objects in Perseus
Questions
When is Perseus visible?
Can I see Perseus from where I live?
Sources: IAU; Wikidata (CC0); SkyMate. Positions computed for your place and time with astronomy-engine. Data & Licences