M59
elliptical galaxy · Virgo · 9.8ᵐ
A Messier catalogue object — elliptical galaxy in Virgo.
Notable facts
About 1/6 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M59 in?
M59 lies in Virgo.
Is M59 visible to the naked eye?
9.8ᵐ — a telescope is needed.
When is the best time to observe M59?
Best observed in March.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 12h 42m · +11° 39′
- Type
- elliptical galaxy
- Constellation
- Virgo
- How to observe
- 9.8ᵐ — a telescope is needed
- Angular size
- 5×4′
- Designation
- M59 · NGC 4621
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° | 42° | 66° |
| +55° | 47° | 69° |
| +45° | 57° | 73° |
| +30° | 72° | 77° |
| 0° | 78° | 78° |
| −35° | 43° | 76° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 04:56 |
| February | 02:49 |
| March | 01:04 |
| April | 23:11 |
| May | 21:16 |
| June | 19:10 |
| July | 17:06 |
| August | 15:05 |
| September | 13:12 |
| October | 11:23 |
| November | 09:23 |
| December | 07:14 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.