Observing the Constellations from Southern Africa

Observing the Constellations
Short descriptions for finding the Constellations
from Southern Africa
A star watching service by ASSA Bloemfontein Centre, South Africa
Information customized for southern hemisphere, 29 degree latitude South

List of all 88 official constellations

The Constellation of:

HYDRUS

Background:
Hydrus (the Water Snake) is southern constellation circulpolar constellation as seen from Southern Africa. It is relatively faint, but still visible from most urban skies. Due to its size and central location in the sky, it is an important beacon and well worth learning. It has a distinct triangulur shape with a little tail attaced!

Where is it?
Hydrus is located far south, between smaller constellations such as Reticulum and Tucana. A major boon for would-be students wanting to learn the constellation is the fact that its "tail" lies close to the very bright star Canopus. It is also next to the Small Magellanic Cloud (although the cloud is situated inside the boundaries of Tucana).

Finding it:
The best way to find Hydrus is to start off at Canopus. Using a detailed planishere to jump to the stars of Hydrus. You can also use Reticulum which points "into" the large triangle of Hydrus. Under dark skies you can even use the Small Magellanic Cloud as reference. Be sure to learn Hydrus, it will be worth the effort!

Descriptions are based on evening observations, for the southern hemisphere and more specifically for Southern Africa.

Summer = Dec, Jan, Feb
Autumn = Mar, Apr, May
Winter = Jun, Jul, Aug
Spring = Sep, Oct, Nov

Zenith = point directly above you in the sky

Return to Constellation mainpage