Perseus A (NGC 1275)

Perseus A (NGC 1275) is a galaxy in the constellation Perseus, magnitude 12.2, 2.2′ × 1.4′ across.

The giant central galaxy of the Perseus Cluster and a powerful radio source (Perseus A); small telescopes show a faint smudge among other cluster galaxies.

When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around December, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in November). It can be seen from everywhere north of 48°S and never sets north of 48°N.

At its highest it stands 82° up from 50°N, 83° up from 35°N, 48° up from the equator, 13° up from 35°S.

Facts

Type

Galaxy

Constellation

Perseus

Designations

NGC 1275, C 24

Magnitude

12.2

Apparent size

2.2′ × 1.4′

Position

RA 3h 19.8m, Dec +41° 31′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when Perseus A (NGC 1275) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.