For those who study astronomy, the constellation Cassiopeia is one of the most interesting objects in the starry sky. It is easy to find it in the sky by the characteristic outlines made up of the largest stars. The constellation is rich in star clusters, which can be observed even with binoculars.
Instructions
Step 1
The constellation Cassiopeia is located in the region of the Milky Way and has a memorable configuration. In appearance, the constellation resembles a slightly stretched letters W or M, depending on the specific time of year when observations are made. Visible to the naked eye, the five stars of the constellation have their own names: Kaf, Shedar, Navi, Rukbakh and Segin.
Step 2
Cassiopeia is a small but rather bright constellation. Together with Orion and Ursa Major, it is considered the most remarkable because it is very easy to remember. To find Cassiopeia in the sky, you need to draw an almost straight line through the star that connects the Big Dipper to its handle, and through the North Star, and then continue the imaginary line a little further.
Step 3
Greek myth says that Cassiopeia was the queen of ancient Ethiopia. It is assumed that this constellation depicts the queen herself or her throne. And yet it is customary to compare this constellation with the letter W, since this image most closely matches the shape of the arrangement of the stars. Near Cassiopeia, you can see a characteristic pentagon - the constellation Cepheus. This legendary character, according to legend, was the Ethiopian king and consort of Cassiopeia.
Step 4
The recognizable and distinctive silhouette of Cassiopeia is formed by its five brightest stars of similar magnitude. The brightest star in this constellation is Shedar. The star Navi has a variable brightness that changes over a half-century period. Cassiopeia contains two dozen open star clusters that can be observed with powerful binoculars.
Step 5
Observations of the constellation Cassiopeia in the temperate latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere are possible throughout the year. And yet the most acceptable conditions for studying the object come with the arrival of autumn. At this time, Cassiopeia is high in the sky, almost hitting the zenith. In this position, the constellation remains until the end of the winter period.
