As the year draws to a close, the night sky in December offers a celestial spectacle filled with stories, mythologies, and astronomical wonders.
For skywatchers around the globe, this month is a treasure trove of constellations that sparkle in the crisp winter air (or summer, for those in the Southern Hemisphere).
What are the December constellations?
The December constellations are:
- Aries (The Ram) – Marks the beginning of the Sun’s celestial journey and is symbolized by a ram in various mythologies.
- Eridanus (The River) – Represented as a celestial river flowing across the sky, it is one of the largest constellations.
- Fornax (The Furnace) – Symbolizes a chemical furnace and is recognized for its contributions to the study of galaxy structures.
- Horologium (The Clock) – Named after the pendulum clock and symbolizes the passage of time in the heavens.
- Perseus (The Hero) – Represents the Greek hero known for rescuing Andromeda and defeating the monster Cetus.
1. Aries (The Ram)
Aries, the celestial ram, leaps across the night sky, representing courage and determination.
This constellation symbolizes the ram from Greek mythology, whose golden fleece became the object of an epic quest. Aries holds several notable stars and is the location of the vernal equinox, marking the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
Details
- Number of Stars: 66
- Main Aspect: Depicts the ram from ancient Greek mythology.
- Principal Stars: Hamal, Sharatan, Mesarthim
- Brightest Star: Hamal
- Hemisphere: Both Northern and Southern
- TL;DR: Aries, the ram constellation, embodies bravery and adventure, marking the beginning of spring and offering stellar wonders to explore.
2. Eridanus (The River)
Eridanus, the mighty celestial river, meanders across the night sky, carrying stories of ancient mythology.
Stretching over a significant portion of the celestial sphere, Eridanus invokes tales of mythical rivers such as the Nile. Within its borders lies Achernar, one of the brightest stars in the night sky, along with other celestial jewels waiting to be discovered.
Details
- Number of Stars: 113
- Main Aspect: Depicts the concept of a winding celestial river.
- Principal Stars: Achernar, Cursa, Zaurak
- Brightest Star: Achernar
- Hemisphere: Both Northern and Southern
- TL;DR: Eridanus, the constellation of the celestial river, reveals the beauty of mythology through its extensive reach and stunning stars like Achernar.
3. Fornax (The Furnace)
Fornax, the celestial furnace, glows faintly in the night sky, representing the transformative power of cosmic energy.
This small constellation is historically associated with a chemical furnace used in scientific experimentation. Fornax hosts the Fornax Cluster of galaxies and offers a glimpse into the profound cosmic processes that shape the universe.
Details
- Number of Stars: 29
- Main Aspect: Symbolizes a chemical furnace, reflecting themes of transformation and energy.
- Principal Stars: Alpha Fornacis, Beta Fornacis, Gamma Fornacis
- Brightest Star: Alpha Fornacis
- Hemisphere: Southern
- TL;DR: Fornax, the celestial furnace, invites contemplation and highlights the transformative power of cosmic energy through its galaxies and symbolism.
4. Horologium (The Pendulum Clock)
Horologium, the celestial pendulum clock, marks the passage of time in the vast cosmic expanse.
This faint constellation honors the invention and significance of horology, the measurement of time. Horologium houses one bright star named Alpha Horologii, which serves as a guidepost in the southern skies, reminding us of the celestial mechanics that govern our existence.
Details
- Number of Stars: 23
- Main Aspect: Represents a pendulum clock, symbolizing the measurement and passage of time.
- Principal Stars: Alpha Horologii, Beta Horologii, Gamma Horologii
- Brightest Star: Alpha Horologii
- Hemisphere: Southern
- TL;DR: Horologium, the constellation of the pendulum clock, pays homage to our understanding of time and celestial mechanics, guiding us through the southern skies.
5. Perseus (The Hero)
Perseus, the valiant hero, illuminates the night sky, reminding us of the power of bravery and resilience.
This constellation pays tribute to the legendary hero who defeated the monstrous Medusa. Perseus features fascinating stars and fascinating deep-sky objects, including the radiant Perseids meteor shower, captivating stargazers with its cosmic tale.
Details
- Number of Stars: 137
- Main Aspect: Depicts the hero of Greek mythology known for slaying Medusa.
- Principal Stars: Mirfak, Algol, Atik
- Brightest Star: Mirfak
- Hemisphere: Northern
- TL;DR: Perseus, the constellation of the heroic mythological figure, showcases the triumph of bravery and offers celestial wonders such as meteor showers and deep-sky objects.