Cigar Galaxy (M 82)
Cigar Galaxy (M 82) is a galaxy in the constellation Ursa Major, magnitude 8.4, 11′ × 5.1′ across.
A starburst galaxy seen edge-on, slender and mottled by dust lanes; its burst of star formation was triggered by a close encounter with M81.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around March, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in February). It can be seen from everywhere north of 20°S and never sets north of 20°N.
At its highest it stands 70° up from 50°N, 55° up from 35°N, 20° up from the equator, below the horizon from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Galaxy
- Constellation
- Ursa Major
- Designations
- M 82, NGC 3034
- Magnitude
- 8.4
- Apparent size
- 11′ × 5.1′
- Position
- RA 9h 55.9m, Dec +69° 41′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when Cigar Galaxy (M 82) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.