Sculptor Galaxy (NGC 253)
Sculptor Galaxy (NGC 253) is a galaxy in the constellation Sculptor, magnitude 7.9 (blue), 27′ × 4.6′ across.
One of the brightest galaxies in the sky, a large, dusty starburst spiral seen nearly edge-on; binoculars show a long glow, and telescopes a mottled disc.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around November, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in October). It can be seen from everywhere south of 65°N and never sets south of 65°S.
At its highest it stands 15° up from 50°N, 30° up from 35°N, 65° up from the equator, 80° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Galaxy
- Constellation
- Sculptor
- Designations
- NGC 253, C 65, Sculptor Filament, Silver Coin
- Magnitude
- 7.9 (blue)
- Apparent size
- 27′ × 4.6′
- Position
- RA 0h 47.5m, Dec −25° 17′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when Sculptor Galaxy (NGC 253) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.