Constellation Sagitta
Constellation Sagitta is a small and dim constellation in the northern sky, which is located near the constellations of Cygnus and Aquila. The constellation name Sagitta is derived from the Latin word for “arrow,” as it resembles an arrow pointing towards another constellation, the constellation of Cygnus.
Location and Visibility
Constellation Sagitta is located in the northern hemisphere, between latitudes +90° and -70°. It is best seen during the months of July, August, and September, as it is high in the sky during these months.
The constellation Sagitta is relatively small and dim, making it difficult to spot without the use of binoculars or a telescope. It is located near other brighter constellations, such as Aquila and Cygnus, making it easier to locate.
Stars and Deep Sky Objects in Sagitta
Constellation Sagitta contains a number of stars, some of which are visible to the naked eye. Some of the notable stars in the constellation of Sagitta include:
- Gamma Sagittae: This is the brightest star in the constellation of Sagitta, with a magnitude of 3.47. It is a subgiant star, which means that it has exhausted its core hydrogen and is evolving into a red giant.
- Delta Sagittae: This is another notable star in the constellation Sagitta, with a magnitude of 4.39. It is a yellow-white dwarf star similar to our sun.
- HD 18742: This is a binary star system located in the constellation Sagitta, with a magnitude of 5.6. The two stars in the system orbit each other every 250 days.
Aside from stars, constellation Sagitta also contains some interesting deep-sky objects, including:
- Messier 71: This is a globular cluster located in the constellation Sagitta, which contains hundreds of stars. It is estimated to be around 12.7 billion years old.
- NGC 6888: Also known as the Crescent Nebula, NGC 6888 is a diffuse nebula located in the constellation Sagitta. It is a large and complex structure that is formed from the expanding shell of gas from a massive star that exploded as a supernova.
Mythology around Sagitta
There is no specific mythology or legends associated with the constellation Sagitta. However, its arrow-like shape has led to associations with archery and hunting in many cultures.
The ancient Greeks used the constellation Sagitta to represent the arrow that the god Apollo used to kill the serpent Python. In Hindu mythology, the constellation Sagitta is associated with the goddess Durga, who is often depicted carrying a bow and arrow.
Conclusion
The constellation Sagitta may be small and dim, but it contains some interesting stars and deep-sky objects that are worth exploring. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or a seasoned stargazer, Sagitta is definitely a constellation that is worth adding to your list of heavenly sights to observe.