Constellation Volans
The constellation Volans is a small constellation located in the southern celestial hemisphere. Its name is derived from the Latin word for “flying”, representing the flying fish. Volans was first introduced by a Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius in the early 17th century.
Volans is not a prominent constellation and can be challenging to spot due to its position close to the South Celestial Pole. It is bordered by some notable constellations like Carina, Pictor, and Dorado.
One of the most fascinating features of Volans is the star HD 98618, also known as HR 4427. This star system consists of a binary pair, where two stars orbit around their common center of mass. HR 4427 has an apparent magnitude of 6.23, making it visible to the naked eye under dark skies.
Additionally, Volans contains an intriguing galaxy called the Sculptor Dwarf, or PGC 3074547. It is a dwarf spheroidal galaxy located about 280,000 light-years away from Earth. The Sculptor Dwarf is one of the closest known dwarf galaxies to the Milky Way and is considered a satellite galaxy of our own.
To observe Volans, it’s best to be in the southern hemisphere and far away from light pollution. Using a telescope or binoculars can enhance the viewing experience by revealing more stars and details within the constellation.
For stargazers looking to explore the wonders of the night sky, Volans offers a captivating sight. Its celestial beauty, though lesser-known, is a worthy discovery for astronomers and enthusiasts alike.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volans
https://www.constellation-guide.com/constellation-list/volans-constellation/