Omega Centauri (NGC 5139)
Omega Centauri (NGC 5139) is a globular cluster in the constellation Centaurus, magnitude 3.7, 36′ across.
The largest and brightest globular cluster in the sky, with millions of stars; visible to the naked eye as a fuzzy star, it may be the core of a dwarf galaxy absorbed by the Milky Way.
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 43°N and never sets south of 43°S.
At its highest it stands below the horizon from 50°N, 8° up from 35°N, 43° up from the equator, 78° up from 35°S.
Facts
- Type
- Globular cluster
- Constellation
- Centaurus
- Designations
- NGC 5139, C 80
- Magnitude
- 3.7
- Apparent size
- 36′
- Position
- RA 13h 26.8m, Dec −47° 29′ (J2000)
Open AstroPilot to see when Omega Centauri (NGC 5139) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.