For those visiting the Southern Hemisphere, what would be some of the most famous objects to look to see? When would be the best time to see them and what makes them so famous? Well today, we will be taking a look at these objects that are visible to the naked eye!
Southern Circumpolar Constellations
There are 3 Southern Constellations that are not visible from the Northern hemisphere. These constellations are Carina, Centaurs, and Crux, which can be seen by any at anytime of year. More information can be found here.
The Milky Way Core
In the Northern Hemisphere, there is a to the amount of Milky Way that one can see. The Milky Way in the Southern Hemisphere allows the viewer to see the galactic core high in the nights sky. It is truly a wonderful sight to see.
Best Time To See: mid-May to October
Large and Small Magellanic Clouds (LMC and SMC)
These objects are the largest dwarf galaxies in the Milky Way’s retinue. Although best seen through a set of binoculars, the Large Magellanic Cloud can be seen by the naked eye. For those traveling, after your eyes adjust to the night, the sight of two unexpected clouds might surprise you as they are amazing sights to see. Many astronomers travel specifically to see these dwarf galaxies.
Best Time To See: December To March
Southern Cross
For sailors traveling the ocean, there was no bright pole star to highlight the celestial pole; however, the Southern Cross acts as a navigational aid. The Southern Cross is located in the constellation Crux, andis dominated by a cross-shaped or kite-like asterism.
Best Time To See: May (Although being in Crux, it is circumpolar)
Omega Centauri
This is one of the best globular clusters to view in the sky, regardless of location. The sheer number of stars is amazing and it really shows as the naked eye view makes Omega Centauri look like a faint, fuzzy star. Like any globular cluster, Omega Centauri is best appreciated with a telescope.
Best Time To See: May to August
Sources
http://astronomyonline.org/Observation/ConstellationsSouthernHemi.asp
Be the first to comment on "Famous Naked Eye Southern Hemisphere Objects"