Sextans
Where is Sextans?
Low in the east, at most 7° up around 05:17.
- Rises
- 04:29
- Highest
- 10:19
- Sets
- 16:13
- Best after dark
- 05:17 · 7°
How to find Sextans
Nearby constellations include Hydra and Leo.
Its center is at right ascension 10h 18m, declination −2°. 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 Sextans
Sextans is highest in the evening sky, around 10 pm, in March. 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 76° N to 80° S.
From London tonight, Sextans stays low while the sky is dark: at best 7° above the east horizon around 05:17. 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 Sextans
Eyes
Its stars are fairly faint (the brightest, its alpha star, is mag 4.5). 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
Sextans (genitive Sextantis, abbreviated Sex) is one of the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union, which together cover the whole sky.
Questions
When is Sextans visible?
Can I see Sextans from where I live?
Sources: IAU; Wikidata (CC0); SkyMate. Positions computed for your place and time with astronomy-engine. Data & Licences