M85
elliptical galaxy · Coma Berenices · 9.2ᵐ
A Messier catalogue object — elliptical galaxy in Coma Berenices.
Notable facts
About 1/4 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is M85 in?
M85 lies in Coma Berenices.
Is M85 visible to the naked eye?
9.2ᵐ — a telescope is needed.
When is the best time to observe M85?
Best observed in March.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 12h 25m · +18° 11′
- Type
- elliptical galaxy
- Constellation
- Coma Berenices
- How to observe
- 9.2ᵐ — a telescope is needed
- Angular size
- 7×5′
- Designation
- M85 · NGC 4382
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° | 48° | 51° |
| +55° | 53° | 57° |
| +45° | 63° | 64° |
| +30° | 78° | 69° |
| 0° | 72° | 72° |
| −35° | 37° | 68° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 04:40 |
| February | 02:33 |
| March | 00:47 |
| April | 22:54 |
| May | 21:00 |
| June | 18:53 |
| July | 16:50 |
| August | 14:49 |
| September | 12:55 |
| October | 11:07 |
| November | 09:06 |
| December | 06:57 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.