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Scorpius
Scorpius
Description
Scorpius is one of the most spectacular and easily recognizable constellations. Its shape clearly resembles a scorpion with Antares as its red heart. Antares means "rival of Mars" due to its similar reddish color.
Mythology and History
Scorpius is the scorpion sent by Gaia to kill Orion, the arrogant hunter. That's why Orion and Scorpius are on opposite sides of the sky and are never seen together.
How to Observe
Best visibility from May to August. Antares is unmistakable for its intense red color. The curved tail of the scorpion points toward the center of the Milky Way.
Main Stars
Antares
Brightest star • mag 0.96
Shaula
Sargas
Dschubba
Graffias
Quick Facts
Brightest starAntares
Magnitude0.96
Area497 square degrees
Best seasonSummer
HemisphereSouthern
TypeZodiacal