Allerlei - Modern Constellations: Mensa to Pyxis

Mensa

Mensa, the Table Mountain, was published by LaCaille in 1754. It honors the mountain that overlooked LaCaille's observatory at Cape Town, South Africa.

Monoceros

Monoceros, the Unicorn, was published by Plancius (who was a preacher) in 1612 because this creature was sometimes associated with Jesus Christ.

Norma

Norma, the Carpenter's Square, honors the tool used by carpenters and architects. This constellation was published by LaCaille in 1754.

Pavo

Pavo, the Peacock, was published in 1598 from the work of Plancius and Keyser. It honors the beautiful bird that explorers encountered.

Pictor

Pictor, the Painter's Easel, was published by LaCaille in 1754.

Microscopium

Microscopium, the Microscope, was published by LaCaille in 1754.

Musca

Musca, the Fly, was the work of Plancius and Keyser and was published in 1598. Apparently a fly was placed here to give the Chameleon something to eat!

Octans

Octans, the Octant, was published in 1754 by LaCaille to honor this important tool of science and exploration.

Phoenix

Phoenix, the Phoenix, was from Plancius and Keyser. It was published in 1598 and signifies rebirth.

Pyxis

Pyxis, the Nautical Compass, was published by LaCaille in 1754.