Monoceros
There are 88 recognized constellations.
Monoceros is the almost invisible unicorn.
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Monoceros
Meaning: Unicorn
Pronunciation: mon oss' sir us
Abbreviation: Mon, Mono
Genitive: Monocerotis (mon awe sir awe' tiss)
Number: 55
Size: 481.57 square degrees (1.167% of the sky)
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Monoceros is usually associated with the
unicorn, but the constellation is itself "modern."
Monoceros boasts the two most massive stars yet discovered. The two blue-giants are estimated to be some 55 times the size of the sun, and they revolve around each other.
Together they are known as Plaskett's Star.
This constellation first appeared in 1613, on a celestial globe designed by the Dutch theologian Petrus Plancius.
Jakob Bartsch, a German mathematician,
brought the constellation into general use on
his star charts in 1624 under the name "Unicornu."
Monoceros is on the celestial equator between Orion and Hydra.
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Monoceros Rost, Johann Leonhard.
Atlas Portatilis Coelestis, Nuremburg,
1723.
Updated
28/June/03
(c) 2003 Dee