The universe has 88 modern and ancient, small and large constellations. These constellations have fascinating myths or stories attached to them. One of such fascinating constellations is Canes Venatici.
This constellation symbolizes the “hunting dogs” of Boötes. It belongs to the clan of Ursa Major constellation along with nine other constellations. Canes Venatici is home to two famous stars La Superba and Cor Caroli and has numerous interesting deep-sky objects including five Messier and nine other items.
History of Canes Venatici Constellation
Ptolemy first added the Canes Venatici constellation in the Ursa Major constellation as unformed (Informes) constellation. This constellation was not introduced to the world until the 17th century. In 1687, Johannes Hevelius, a Polish astronomer created Canes Venatici from some faint stars which were located under the tail of big bear.
In the 1930s, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) omitted some constellations which were considered as the innovations of Renaissance and Medieval. However, the Canes Venatici survived the drop-out and became part of the 88 constellations approved by IAU.
What is the English Name for Canes Venatici Constellation?
Canes Venatici is called “Hunting Dogs” in English.
What is the Greek Mythological Significance of Canes Venatici Constellation?
Canes Venatici also does not have any myth associated with it; instead, it has a story. In the Middle Ages, this constellation was associated with two dogs of Boötes (the Herdsman). However, the translators made a mistake while translating the Almagest of Ptolemy from Greek to Arabic
In Ptolemy’s Almagest, some Boötes’ stars represent the club of Herdsman. But the translator translated club in Greek as the spearshaft with a hook. Later, when his Arabic phrase was translated to Latin, the translator mixed a word with “kilāb” that means “dogs.”
How to Find Canes Venatici Constellation?
Canes Venatici contains only two bright stars which can easily be located even with the naked eye in the night. However, you should follow the steps below to spot it accurately:
- Locate Ursa Major, Coma Berenices or Boötes.
- Between them you will see two bright stars, that is La Superba and Cor Caroli.
What is the Area of Canes Venatici Constellation?
This constellation has an area of 465.194 square degrees.
What Quadrant is Canes Venatici Constellation in?
It is located in the third quadrant of the northern hemisphere. This quadrant is also referred to as “NQ3”.
What Latitudes is Canes Venatici Constellation Visible in?
The Canes Venatici can be seen between the latitude of +90° and -40°. Its neighbouring constellations are:
- Boötes
- Coma Berenices
- Ursa Major
What Type of Telescope if best for Viewing Canes Venatici Constellation?
Due to the bright stars in this constellation, you can easily spot it even with the naked eyes. However, to easily view it with naked eyes, the sky must be clear and the night darker.
Moreover, you do not need large telescopes for clearly watching it. You can have a detailed view using binoculars, small telescopes and other telescopes made for amateurs.
Sources
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