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> Constellations of Ara, Norma and Telescopium

Constellations of Ara, Norma and Telescopium

author: A.Fujii/David Malin Images/Novapix

reference: a-cst03-00003

Image Size 300 DPI: 40 * 51 cm

Ara (the Altar) is an inconspicuous constellation in the southern sky. It was once considered part of Centaurus and Lupus but became separated when the 'modern' constellation Norma was created by Lacaille in the 1750s. It was recognised by the Greeks and Romans and was visualised as the altar on which the Centaur, Centaurus, was to sacrifice Lupus, the Wolf. This is reflected in its Latin name, Ara Centauri. The constellation is the 63rd largest in the sky and covers about 237 square degrees. The best-known objects in this field are some diffuse dusty nebulae and star clusters. The only named star in Ara is Karnot Mizbeach (ß Ara). Best seen in the early evening in July.  

Keywords for this photo:

ARA - ASTRONOMY - CONSTELLATION - MILKY WAY - NIGHT - NORMA - POSTER - SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE - STAR - STARRY SKY - TELESCOPIUM -