Constellation · Cap
Capricornus
The Sea-Goat
A zodiac constellation outlined by a wide triangle of stars, best placed in the evening sky in late summer and autumn.
Magnitude 2.85
Highest in the sky at 9 pm local time (autumn in the northern hemisphere)
Latitudes where every part of it rises above the horizon at some time of year
The whole sky covers about 41,253 square degrees
Stars brighter than about magnitude 6, the naked-eye limit under dark skies
Named stars in Capricornus
Brightest first. A lower magnitude means a brighter star.
- Deneb Algedi (Delta Capricorni)mag 2.85
- Dabih (Beta Capricorni)mag 3.05
- Algedi (Alpha² Capricorni)mag 3.58
- Nashira (Gamma Capricorni)mag 3.69
- Yen (Zeta Capricorni)mag 3.77
- Wei (Psi Capricorni)mag 4.13
Can you see Capricornus from where you live?
This depends only on your latitude. Pick the row nearest to you; for your exact sky tonight, use the sky map.
| Latitude | Capricornus |
|---|---|
| 60°N | The whole constellation rises and sets |
| 40°N | The whole constellation rises and sets |
| 20°N | The whole constellation rises and sets |
| the equator | The whole constellation rises and sets |
| 20°S | The whole constellation rises and sets |
| 40°S | The whole constellation rises and sets |
| 60°S | The whole constellation rises and sets |
Questions about Capricornus
When is Capricornus best seen?
Capricornus stands highest in the sky at 9 pm local time in September. That makes autumn evenings the best time for observers in the northern hemisphere; in the southern hemisphere the season is reversed.
What is the brightest star in Capricornus?
The brightest star in Capricornus is Deneb Algedi (Delta Capricorni), magnitude 2.85.
Where on Earth can you see Capricornus?
The whole of Capricornus can be seen from latitudes between about 90°S and 62°N. From 40°N: The whole constellation rises and sets. From 35°S: The whole constellation rises and sets.
What does Capricornus mean?
Capricornus is Latin for "the Sea-Goat". One of Ptolemy's 48 ancient constellations (2nd century).