M66
spiral galaxy · Leo · 9.0ᵐ
The largest galaxy of the Leo Triplet — its arms are visibly distorted by its neighbours’ gravity.
Notable facts
About 1/3 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M66 in?
M66 lies in Leo.
Is M66 visible to the naked eye?
9.0ᵐ — a telescope is needed.
When is the best time to observe M66?
Best observed in March.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 11h 20m · +12° 59′
- Type
- spiral galaxy
- Constellation
- Leo
- How to observe
- 9.0ᵐ — a telescope is needed
- Angular size
- 9×4′
- Designation
- M66 · NGC 3627
Observing tip
Get away from city light pollution — it washes out the faint glow of galaxies first.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 43° | 63° |
| +55° | 48° | 67° |
| +45° | 58° | 71° |
| +30° | 73° | 75° |
| 0° | 77° | 77° |
| −35° | 42° | 74° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 03:35 |
| February | 01:27 |
| March | 23:42 |
| April | 21:49 |
| May | 19:54 |
| June | 17:48 |
| July | 15:44 |
| August | 13:43 |
| September | 11:50 |
| October | 10:02 |
| November | 08:01 |
| December | 05:52 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.