Virgo A
elliptical galaxy · Virgo · 8.6ᵐ
A giant elliptical at the heart of the Virgo Cluster. Its supermassive black hole was the first ever photographed, in 2019.
Notable facts
About 1/4 the apparent diameter of the Moon.
In brief
Which constellation is Virgo A in?
Virgo A lies in Virgo.
Is Virgo A visible to the naked eye?
8.6ᵐ — a telescope is needed.
When is the best time to observe Virgo A?
Best observed in March.
Data
- RA / Dec (J2000)
- 12h 31m · +12° 24′
- Type
- elliptical galaxy
- Constellation
- Virgo
- How to observe
- 8.6ᵐ — a telescope is needed
- Angular size
- 8×7′
- Designation
- M87 · NGC 4486 · Virgo A
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° | 65° |
| +55° | 47° | 68° |
| +45° | 57° | 72° |
| +30° | 72° | 76° |
| 0° | 78° | 78° |
| −35° | 43° | 75° |
Geometric altitude at upper culmination, atmospheric refraction not included. Positive latitudes are in the northern hemisphere.
Culmination time by month
| Month | Culmination |
|---|---|
| January | 04:45 |
| February | 02:38 |
| March | 00:53 |
| April | 22:59 |
| May | 21:05 |
| June | 18:59 |
| July | 16:55 |
| August | 14:54 |
| September | 13:01 |
| October | 11:12 |
| November | 09:11 |
| December | 07:03 |
Upper culmination in local solar time — no time-zone or daylight-saving correction applied.