Centaurus A (NGC 5128)
Centaurus A (NGC 5128) is a galaxy in the constellation Centaurus, magnitude 7.2, 26′ × 20′ across.
A giant elliptical galaxy crossed by a broad dark dust lane, the result of a merger; one of the brightest galaxies in the sky and a powerful radio source.
When and where to see it
It is best placed in the evening sky around May, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in April). It can be seen from everywhere south of 47°N and never sets south of 47°S.
At its highest it stands below the horizon from 50°N, 12° up from 35°N, 47° up from the equator, 82° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Galaxy
- Constellation
- Centaurus
- Designations
- NGC 5128, C 77
- Magnitude
- 7.2
- Apparent size
- 26′ × 20′
- Position
- RA 13h 25.5m, Dec −43° 1′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when Centaurus A (NGC 5128) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.