Auriga constellation

Auriga is one of the 88 constellations, and it represents the charioteer. It is highest in the sky at midnight around 13 December, and its whole figure rises above the horizon from 90°N to 44°S.

CapellaElnathMenkalinanMake a star map with constellations

Auriga at a glance

Represents
the charioteer
Highest at midnight
13 December
Highest at 9 pm
27 January
Seen whole from
90°N to 44°S
Brightest star
Capella
Stars in the figure
6 stars
Origin
Ptolemy's list, 2nd century

When to see Auriga

Auriga is highest in the sky at midnight around 13 December and at 9 pm around 27 January. Each month it is highest about two hours earlier than the month before.

The times are local solar time. Clocks on summer time or daylight saving time read about one hour later.

When Auriga is highest each month
DateHighest at
15 January21:50
15 February19:40
15 March17:50
15 April15:50
15 May14:00
15 June11:50
15 July10:00
15 August07:50
15 September05:50
15 October03:50
15 November01:50
15 December23:50

Where to look for Auriga

From the northern hemisphere

From 40°N, Auriga rises in the east and sets in the west. It is highest around midnight on 13 December, almost overhead.

From the southern hemisphere

From 35°S, Auriga rises in the east and sets in the west. It is highest around midnight on 13 December, 16° above the northern horizon.

Brightest stars in Auriga

The brightest stars in Auriga
StarMagnitude
Capella0.08
Menkalinan1.90

Auriga in myth and history

Auriga is one of the 48 constellations that the astronomer Ptolemy listed in the 2nd century.

Constellations next to Auriga

Find Auriga in your sky

Questions about Auriga