The Beauty and Mystery of Cancer Constellation
The night sky has always fascinated us with its twinkling stars and celestial wonders. One such wonder is the Cancer constellation, also known as the Crab. Located in the northern hemisphere, Cancer is one of the twelve constellations of the zodiac. In this article, we will delve into the mysteries and significance of Cancer constellation.
The Origins and Mythology
According to Greek mythology, Cancer is associated with the story of Heracles, the mighty Greek hero. Heracles was tasked with defeating the Hydra, a fearsome water serpent. During the battle, the goddess Hera, who despised Heracles, sent a crab to distract him. However, Heracles crushed the crab with his foot, and as a reward for its bravery, the crab was immortalized as a constellation.
In Chinese mythology, Cancer is associated with the legend of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd. These star-crossed lovers were separated by the Milky Way and were only allowed to meet once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, known as the Chinese Valentine's Day.
Identifying Cancer Constellation
Cancer is relatively small and can be found between the constellations of Gemini and Leo. It is best observed during the winter months in the northern hemisphere. Look for a group of faint stars forming a sideways "Y" shape, resembling a crab. The brightest star in Cancer is called Al Tarf, which means "the end" in Arabic.
Sample Cancer Constellation Stars
1. Al Tarf (Beta Cancri): This is the brightest star in Cancer and marks the end of the constellation. It is an orange giant star located around 290 light-years away from Earth.
2. Acubens (Alpha Cancri): Acubens is a binary star system composed of two white stars located approximately 174 light-years away. It is known for its beautiful blue-white color.
3. Asellus Borealis (Gamma Cancri): Also known as "Northern Donkey," this star is located around 158 light-years away. It is a yellow-white giant star and is a popular target for amateur astronomers.
4. Asellus Australis (Delta Cancri): Also known as "Southern Donkey," this star is located around 136 light-years away. It is a blue-white giant star and forms the southern part of the Cancer constellation.
5. Altarf (Beta Cancri): This star is located around 290 light-years away from Earth. It is an orange giant star and marks the end of the Cancer constellation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cancer Constellation
Q: How big is the Cancer constellation?
A: The Cancer constellation covers an area of approximately 506 square degrees in the sky.
Q: Can Cancer constellation be seen from both hemispheres?
A: Yes, Cancer can be seen from both the northern and southern hemispheres. However, it is more prominent in the northern hemisphere.
Q: What is the best time to observe Cancer constellation?
A: The best time to observe Cancer is during the winter months in the northern hemisphere when it is highest in the sky.
Q: How many stars are there in the Cancer constellation?
A: There are over 80 stars in the Cancer constellation, with the brightest being Al Tarf.
Q: Are there any famous deep-sky objects in Cancer?
A: Yes, there are several notable deep-sky objects in Cancer, including the Beehive Cluster (M44) and the Ghost of Jupiter planetary nebula (NGC 3242).
Q: Can Cancer constellation be seen with the naked eye?
A: Yes, Cancer can be seen with the naked eye under dark sky conditions. However, a telescope or binoculars can enhance the view.
Q: Is there any significant astrological significance associated with Cancer?
A: In astrology, Cancer is associated with the element of water and is said to represent emotions, nurturing, and home life.
Conclusion
Cancer constellation is a fascinating part of the night sky, with its rich mythology and beautiful stars. Whether you are an avid stargazer or simply curious about the wonders of the universe, exploring Cancer can be a rewarding experience. So, next time you find yourself under a clear night sky, don't forget to look for the sideways "Y" shape and discover the beauty of Cancer constellation.
Tags:
cancer, constellation, astronomy, zodiac, mythology, stars, Greek, Chinese, night sky, stargazing
