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Zodiacal•Leo
Leo
Leo
Description
Leo is one of the easiest constellations to recognize thanks to its characteristic shape of a reclining lion. The "Sickle" asterism forms the lion's head and mane, with Regulus at its heart. It is an area rich in galaxies.
Mythology and History
Leo represents the Nemean Lion, an invulnerable beast that Heracles killed as his first labor. The lion had impenetrable skin, so Heracles strangled it and used its own claws to skin it.
How to Observe
Best visibility from February to June. Look for "the Sickle" (inverted question mark shape) to find the head. Regulus shines brightly near the ecliptic.
Main Stars
Régulo
Brightest star • mag 1.35
Denébola
Algieba
Zosma
Chertan
Quick Facts
Brightest starRégulo
Magnitude1.35
Area947 square degrees
Best seasonSpring
HemisphereNorthern
TypeZodiacal