Virgo (constellation)

zodiac constellation passing through the celestial equator

Virgo is a zodiac constellation which lies on the celestial equator. It is between Leo (at west) and Libra (at east).This constellation is large; the constellation is the second biggest constellation you can see on the sky. Legends say Virgo is Astraea.

Virgo
Constellation
Virgo
AbbreviationVir
GenitiveVirginis
Pronunciation/ˈvɜːrɡ/,
genitive /ˈvɜːrɪnɪs/
Symbolismthe Virgin
Right ascension13
Declination−4
QuadrantSQ3
Area1294 sq. deg. (2nd)
Main stars9, 15
Bayer/Flamsteed
stars
96
Stars with planets29
Stars brighter than 3.00m3
Stars within 10.00 pc (32.62 ly)10
Brightest starSpica (α Vir) (0.98m)
Messier objects11
Meteor showersVirginids
Mu Virginids
Bordering
constellations
Boötes
Coma Berenices
Leo
Crater
Corvus
Hydra
Libra
Serpens Caput
Visible at latitudes between +80° and −80°.
Best visible at 21:00 (9 p.m.) during the month of May.
Virgo constellation

What you can see there

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Virgo's most briliant and important star is Spica (α Virginis). This star helps to see Virgo. Other important stars are Zavijava (β Virginis), Porrima (ν Virginis) or Auva, also called Minelava.

Deep-sky notable objects

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Because there is a galaxy cluster (the Virgo cluster) within its borders, this constellation is especially rich in galaxies.