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Sky Chart and Artist Rendering of Delphinus
Origin:
One of the constellations described by Ptolemy in the Almagest
(A.D. 140). It was probably seen as a dolphin first by ancient
mariners to honor these playful creatures and their friendly relations
with people. The description of this star group as a dolphin may
have originated in India.
Information:
Delphinus is a late summer constellation located east of Aquila and west of Aquarius.
The Dolphin is highest in the sky at 9 pm on September 28. While the
constellation itself is quite pretty, Delphinus is not a constellation to
explore with a telescope smaller than 20 cm (8") telescope since all
of the deep sky objects in Delphinus are very faint.
Mythology:
Several legends surround Delphinus. In one legend, the dolphin
saved the Greek poet-musician Arion, court musician for the King of
Corinth, Periander. In another Greek myth, the Dolphin was placed in
the heavens by Poseidon, brother of Zeus, in gratitude for it showing the
hiding place of the mermaid Amphitrite. |
