Andromeda

Description

Andromeda is famous for containing the Andromeda Galaxy (M31), the most distant object visible to the naked eye. This galaxy will collide with the Milky Way in about 4.5 billion years.

Mythology and History

Andromeda was the Ethiopian princess chained to a rock as a sacrifice to the monster Cetus, due to her mother Cassiopeia's vanity. She was rescued by Perseus, who made her his wife.

How to Observe

Best visibility from September to February. The Andromeda Galaxy appears as an elongated smudge near the star Mirach. It is easy to find starting from the Square of Pegasus.

Main Stars