Observer's guide
About NGC 1261
NGC 1261 (C87) is catalogued as a globular cluster in Horologium. Its J2000 position is RA 03:12:16, Dec -55:12:59, corresponding to 48.0675 degrees RA and -55.2162 degrees Dec. The local catalogue places it about 53,100 light-years away. Its referenced angular extent is approximately 6.9 by 6.9 arcminutes.
Observing tips
This is rated as a moderate target at magnitude 8.4. It is associated with autumn observing, with midnight placement typically strongest around November. From 52 degrees north its theoretical meridian altitude is about 0 degrees; local horizons and the live altitude chart determine the practical window.
A small telescope under reasonably dark skies is a good starting point; use the live altitude chart to choose its highest point.
What to expect
The SIMBAD classification for the matched source is GlC. A published radial velocity value is 71.5 km/s. The SIMBAD record currently connects it to 586 bibliographic references.
At roughly 6.9 arcminutes across, it benefits from a narrower field and adequate image scale. Use the listed 6.9 by 6.9 arcminute extent to check framing, and treat catalogue magnitude as integrated brightness rather than a direct measure of visual contrast.