Crux constellation: how to find it, when to see it and what is in it
In short
Crux, the Southern Cross, is the smallest constellation in the sky and the key signpost of the southern hemisphere: four bright stars in a cross point to the south celestial pole. It is not visible from Europe or Russia — the Cross appears south of about 25° north: in Egypt, India, Thailand, and in the southern hemisphere it never sets. Beside it lie the dark Coalsack and two bright Pointers, Alpha and Beta Centauri.
Area: 68 square degrees, 88 of 88 · Neighbours: Centaurus, Musca · Updated 10 October 2026
How to find Crux
- 1
Look south of the tropics
In the northern hemisphere — low in the south on April–May evenings, south of 25° N. From Australia, South Africa and South America the Cross is seen all year.
- 2
Don't mistake the False Cross
The real Cross is more compact and brighter and has two very bright Pointers next to it — Alpha and Beta Centauri. The False Cross (in Vela and Carina) is larger and has no pointers.
- 3
Find south
Extend the long bar from Gacrux through Acrux by about 4.5 times its length — that is the south celestial pole; below it on the horizon is due south.
When it is visible over London
| Month | Where and when | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| January — december | — | never rises |
Stars of the constellation
| Star | What it is | Magnitude |
|---|---|---|
| Mimosa · β Cru | blue-white giant | 1.3ᵐ |
| Acrux · α¹ Cru | blue-white subgiant | 1.3ᵐ |
| Gacrux · γ Cru | red giant | 1.6ᵐ |
| Imai · δ Cru | blue-white subgiant | 2.8ᵐ |
Crux FAQ
When is the best time to see Crux?
Where is Crux in the sky?
What is the brightest star in Crux?
Neighbouring and other constellations
Related
Constellation lines: Stellarium, CC BY-SA · star names: IAU WGSN, CC BY 4.0