M49
elliptical galaxy · Virgo · 8.4ᵐ
A Messier catalogue object — elliptical galaxy in Virgo.
Notable facts
About 1/3 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M49 in?
M49 lies in Virgo.
Is M49 visible to the naked eye?
8.4ᵐ — visible with binoculars.
When is the best time to observe M49?
Best observed in March.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 12h 30m · +8° 00′
- Type
- elliptical galaxy
- Constellation
- Virgo
- How to observe
- 8.4ᵐ — visible with binoculars
- Angular size
- 10×8′
- Designation
- M49 · NGC 4472
Observing tip
It appears as a soft oval smudge without structure — do not expect spiral arms.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 38° | 74° |
| +55° | 43° | 76° |
| +45° | 53° | 79° |
| +30° | 68° | 81° |
| 0° | 82° | 82° |
| −35° | 47° | 80° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 04:44 |
| February | 02:37 |
| March | 00:52 |
| April | 22:58 |
| May | 21:04 |
| June | 18:58 |
| July | 16:54 |
| August | 14:53 |
| September | 13:00 |
| October | 11:11 |
| November | 09:10 |
| December | 07:02 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.