For quite a while the major area of interest for most of the astronomers has been related to the study of constellations. Constellations have not only the grabbed the attention of the researchers but also the common crowd as well. We people are very much infatuated with these unique formations or gathering of stars that are visible at night time.
These constellations have been given names based on different mythological characters and animals. Some may resemble a bear, a hunter, scorpion, etc. There are many constellations which are not visible to us. As such not much is known about such gatherings of stars. But being an area of interest for the astronomers some facts have been found about these not so clearly visible constellations.
Hydra is one amongst the many such blurred constellations, about which most of you may not be aware at all.
Know about Hydra
Hydra is known to be the largest collection of stars in the sky. Lying across the latitude 102.5, this assemblage is found south to the famous constellation Cancer. The name for this constellation is derived from the mythical Greek character known as Lernanean Hydra. Another reference for this constellation is about how the greek god Apollo got tricked by a crow.
Some of the prominent objects that can be seen in Hydra are as follows:-
- Messier 48, Messier 68, Messier 83.
- Hydra cluster of galaxies.
- NGC 5694.
- Ghost of Jupiter nebula.
- ESO 510-G13 or Spiral galaxy.
Amazing facts associated with Hydra
There are some or the other facts associated with every single constellation in the sky. Same goes for Hydra as well. Let’s dive into the various amazing and interesting facts about this constellation:-
- Out of all the constellations in the sky, 88 in number, the largest one is Hydra.
- An area equal to 1303 square° is covered by this constellation.
- Some of the constellations neighboring Hydra are Cancer, Virgo, Antlia, Leo, Crater, Lupus and many more.
- Each of the constellations belongs to the specific family, and in case of Hydra, it is a member of Hercules group.
- The total number of stars in Hydra that have planets as well is 18.
- Alphard is the brightest star of this constellation.
- Sigma Hydrids and Alpha Hydris are the most distinct meteor showers that are associated with Hydra constellation.
Myths related to Hydra
Common myths related to the constellation Hydra, which most of you may want to know, are given below
- This constellation resembles a lot like a serpent. In Greek culture, Hydra was associated with two distinct Babylonian constellations.
- You must have heard about the Heracles’ 12 labors, a very prominent story in the Greek mythology. In the story, the antagonist, i.e., Heracles combats a multi-headed monster known by the name of Hydra.
- The monster was said to have nine heads in total, one of which is considered to be immortal.
If you are all amazed after reading about this constellation and still wants to explore more then just take the help of the internet and broaden your knowledge.