Observing the Constellations from Southern Africa

Observing the Constellations
Short descriptions for finding the Constellations
from Southern Africa
A star watching service by ASSA Bloemfontein Centre, South Africa
Information customized for southern hemisphere, 29 degree latitude South

List of all 88 official constellations

The Constellation of:

HOROLOGIUM

Background:
Horologium (the Clock) is one of the faintest constellations and can be found in the far southern skies. Its long shape represents a pendulum clock. It can only be seen from dark conditions and learning the constellation should only be attempted by the more experienced observers.

Where is it?
Horologium is best seen from November to March. It lies in a dark area of the sky and is flanked by various other southern constellations, most notably Dorado and Reticulum. The star Achernar and its constellation Eridanus lies close by.

Finding it:
If you know Dorado or Reticulum, start from there. Otherwise, find your way to Horologium by using Achernar in Eridanus. Alternatively, you can first learn Dorado (with reference to the Large Magellanic Cloud) and attempt your hand at the Clock. Not for the beginner though!

Descriptions are based on evening observations, for the southern hemisphere and more specifically for Southern Africa.

Summer = Dec, Jan, Feb
Autumn = Mar, Apr, May
Winter = Jun, Jul, Aug
Spring = Sep, Oct, Nov

Zenith = point directly above you in the sky

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