What is the Cancer Constellation?
The
Cancer constellation is one of the twelve zodiac constellations. It is situated in the northern celestial hemisphere and is most visible in the night sky between late winter and spring. Cancer is Latin for "crab," and the constellation is often depicted as a crab in various mythological stories.
How to Locate the Cancer Constellation?
Finding Cancer in the night sky can be a bit challenging due to its relatively dim stars. However, it can be located between the more prominent constellations of
Gemini to the west and
Leo to the east. The best time to observe Cancer is during the months of March and April.
Mythology Behind the Cancer Constellation
The Cancer constellation is associated with several mythological stories. One of the most popular myths comes from Greek mythology, where the crab is said to have been sent by the goddess
Hera to distract
Heracles during his battle with the Hydra. Despite its small size and eventual defeat, Hera honored the crab by placing it among the stars.
Key Stars in the Cancer Constellation
Cancer is home to several notable stars, although none are exceptionally bright. The primary stars include
Beta Cancri (Altarf), which is the brightest star in the constellation, and
Delta Cancri, which contains the
Beehive Cluster (M44), an open cluster of stars that is one of the nearest to Earth and visible to the naked eye in dark skies.
Deep Sky Objects in Cancer
Besides the Beehive Cluster, Cancer also houses the
Messier 67 (M67) cluster, another open star cluster that is one of the oldest known clusters. These clusters provide valuable information about stellar evolution and the dynamics of star clusters.
Astrological Significance
In astrology, Cancer is the fourth sign of the zodiac and is ruled by the Moon. People born between June 21 and July 22 fall under this sign. Cancer is often associated with emotions, nurturing, and family. The symbol for Cancer is the crab, indicative of its protective and tenacious nature.Interesting Facts
Cancer is one of the dimmest constellations in the zodiac.
The Beehive Cluster has been known since ancient times and was even mentioned by
Ptolemy.
Because Cancer is a zodiac constellation, the Sun passes through it from late July to early August.
