Circinus

Circinus

Constellation
List of stars in Circinus
Abbreviation	Cir
Genitive	Circini
Pronunciation	/ˈsɜrsɨnəs/ Círcinus, genitive /ˈsɜrsɨnaɪ/
Symbolism	the Compass
Right ascension	15 h
Declination	−60°
Quadrant	SQ3
Area	93 sq. deg. (85th)
Main stars	3
Bayer/Flamsteed stars	9
Stars with planets	1
Stars brighter than 3.00m	0
Stars within 10.00 pc (32.62 ly)	0
Brightest star	α Cir (3.18m)
Nearest star	α Cir (53.50 ly, 16.40 pc)
Messier objects	0
Meteor showers	None
Bordering constellations	Centaurus Musca Apus Triangulum Australe Norma Lupus
Visible at latitudes between +30° and −90°. Best visible at 21:00 (9 p.m.) during the month of June.

The constellation Circinus 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.

History

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.

Location

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
• Circinus Constellation