Cigar Galaxy
irregular galaxy · Ursa Major · 8.4ᵐ
The Cigar Galaxy is in a starburst triggered by a close pass with M81, with jets of superheated gas blasting from its core.
Notable facts
About 1/3 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is Cigar Galaxy in?
Cigar Galaxy lies in Ursa Major.
Is Cigar Galaxy visible to the naked eye?
8.4ᵐ — visible with binoculars.
When is the best time to observe Cigar Galaxy?
Best observed in February.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 9h 56m · +69° 41′
- Type
- irregular galaxy
- Constellation
- Ursa Major
- How to observe
- 8.4ᵐ — visible with binoculars
- Angular size
- 11×4′
- Designation
- M82 · NGC 3034 · Cigar Galaxy
Observing tip
Look for it under dark skies; the shape is irregular and the surface brightness low.
Altitude above the horizon by latitude
| Latitude | Maximum altitude | Rise azimuth |
|---|---|---|
| +60° | 80° · never sets | — |
| +55° | 75° · never sets | — |
| +45° | 65° · never sets | — |
| +30° | 50° · never sets | — |
| 0° | 20° | 20° |
| −35° | never rises | — |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 02:10 |
| February | 00:03 |
| March | 22:18 |
| April | 20:24 |
| May | 18:30 |
| June | 16:24 |
| July | 14:20 |
| August | 12:19 |
| September | 10:26 |
| October | 08:37 |
| November | 06:36 |
| December | 04:28 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.