Virgo A (M 87)
Virgo A (M 87) is a galaxy in the constellation Virgo, magnitude 8.6, 7.1′ × 6.7′ across.
The giant elliptical at the center of the Virgo Cluster, surrounded by thousands of globular clusters; its central black hole was the first ever imaged (2019). Telescopes show a round glow with a bright core; its jet is a challenge for large apertures.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around April, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in March). It can be seen from everywhere north of 78°S and never sets north of 78°N.
At its highest it stands 52° up from 50°N, 67° up from 35°N, 78° up from the equator, 43° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Galaxy
- Constellation
- Virgo
- Designations
- M 87, NGC 4486, Virgo Galaxy
- Magnitude
- 8.6
- Apparent size
- 7.1′ × 6.7′
- Position
- RA 12h 30.8m, Dec +12° 23′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when Virgo A (M 87) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.