Circinus

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List of stars in Circinus
Abbreviation:	Cir
Genitive:	Circini
Symbolism:	Compass
Right ascension:	15 h
Declination:	−60°
Area:	93 sq. deg. (85th)
Main stars:	3
Bayer/Flamsteed stars:	9
Stars with known planets:	0
Bright stars:	0
Nearby stars:	0
Brightest star:	α Cir (3.2m)
Nearest star:	α Cir (53.5 ly)
Messier objects:	0
Meteor showers:	None
Bordering constellations:	Centaurus Musca Apus Triangulum Australe Norma Lupus
Visible at latitudes between +10° and −90° Best visible at 21:00 (9 p.m.) during the month of June

The constellation Circinus (pronounced /ˈsɝsɨnəs/) is a small constellation in the southern sky, first defined in the 18th century. Its name is Latin for compass, referring to the drafting tool used for drawing circles; it should not be confused with Pyxis, a constellation that represents a mariner's compass.

Circinus was introduced in the 18th century by Nicolas Louis de Lacaille, whose fascination with secular science led him to name the constellations he defined after scientific instruments.

Circinus is located at a declination of −50 to −60 degrees, and hence the whole constellation is visible only south of the 30° north latitude.

References

• Ian Ridpath and Wil Tirion (2007). Stars and Planets Guide, Collins, London. ISBN 978-0007251209. Princeton University Press, Princeton. ISBN 978-0691135564.

External links

• The Deep Photographic Guide to the Constellations: Circinus
• Star Tales – Circinus

Source: adapted by the editor from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia; from the article "Circinus". Image Credit.

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