Constellation · Lyn
Lynx
The Lynx
A long, faint northern constellation; Hevelius is said to have named it because you need lynx eyes to see it.
Magnitude 3.14
Highest in the sky at 9 pm local time (spring 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 Lynx
Brightest first. A lower magnitude means a brighter star.
- Alsciaukatmag 4.25
- Intercrusmag 5.40
Can you see Lynx 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 | Lynx |
|---|---|
| 60°N | Visible all night, all year (it never 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 | Only part of it ever clears the horizon |
| 60°S | Never rises |
Questions about Lynx
When is Lynx best seen?
Lynx stands highest in the sky at 9 pm local time in March. That makes spring evenings the best time for observers in the northern hemisphere; in the southern hemisphere the season is reversed.
What is the brightest star in Lynx?
The brightest star in Lynx is Alpha Lyncis, magnitude 3.14.
Where on Earth can you see Lynx?
The whole of Lynx can be seen from latitudes between about 28°S and 90°N. From 40°N: The whole constellation rises and sets. From 35°S: Only part of it ever clears the horizon.
What does Lynx mean?
Lynx is Latin for "the Lynx". Introduced by Johannes Hevelius in the late 1600s.