Constellation Cancer

Constellation Cancer, also known as the “Crab,” is one of the twelve constellations of the zodiac. It is located in the northern hemisphere and can be seen during the winter months. Cancer is one of the faintest constellations, but it holds significant importance in both mythology and astronomy.

Mythology

In Greek mythology, Cancer represents the crab that was sent by the goddess Hera to defeat Hercules during his battle with the multi-headed Hydra. The crab attacked Hercules by pinching his foot, but Hercules ultimately crushed it. In honor of its efforts, Hera placed the crab among the stars as a constellation.

Astronomy

Cancer is located between the constellations Gemini and Leo. It is best observed in January and February in the northern hemisphere. The brightest star in Cancer is called Al Tarf (Beta Cancri) and is relatively faint. Cancer is particularly renowned for being the home of the Beehive Cluster (M44), which is a collection of stars visible to the naked eye under dark sky conditions.

Cancer is also known for having a prominent deep-sky object called the “Cancri Cluster” (also known as “Praesepe” or the “Beehive Cluster”). This cluster is made up of several hundred stars, including bright stars and fainter ones that create a beautiful stellar display through telescopes.

Notably, Cancer marks the location of the summer solstice point, which is the northernmost point reached by the sun in its apparent path across the celestial sphere. This position also marks the beginning of the summer season in the northern hemisphere.