This week offers a prime opportunity to identify Scorpius, the Scorpion constellation, as it graces the southern sky. Starwatchers can use the bright waxing gibbous moon near Antares as a guide to locate this zodiacal constellation, the mythical adversary of Orion.
Understanding Scorpius: The Scorpion Constellation
In mythology, Scorpius was sent to kill Orion the hunter, and the two constellations are forever placed on opposite sides of the sky. When Scorpius rises, Orion has already set, making it a classic celestial rivalry. For observers in the UK, Scorpius can be frustrating because it stays so low that it never fully rises above the horizon. The best viewing is from more southerly latitudes, but with a clear southern horizon, you can still catch its main features.
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Key Stars in Scorpius
The most prominent star is Antares, a red supergiant that marks the heart of the Scorpion. Its name means “rival of Mars” due to its reddish hue. From Britain, Antares often appears to twinkle because it is seen through thicker, more turbulent air near the horizon. Other notable stars include Shaula and Lesath, which form the stinger of the scorpion.
| Star Name | Magnitude | Color | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antares | 0.96 | Red-orange | Heart of the Scorpion, red supergiant |
| Shaula | 1.62 | Blue-white | Stinger tip |
| Lesath | 2.70 | Blue-white | Second stinger star |
How to Find Scorpius This Week
The chart shows the view looking low in the southern sky from London at 11pm BST on 24 July. The constellation remains in roughly the same part of the sky all week. On this particular night, the bright waxing gibbous moon lies close to Antares, making it easier to pinpoint. Look for the curved shape of the scorpion’s body and the distinctive red star at its heart.
Tips for UK Stargazers
- Choose a night with clear skies and a low southern horizon free of trees or buildings.
- Use binoculars to enhance the view of Antares and the moon’s glow.
- Observe after 10pm for the darkest sky.
- Note that only the head and torso of Scorpius rise above the horizon from the UK; the stinger remains below.
Mythological Background
In Greek mythology, Orion boasted that he could kill any animal on Earth. The goddess Gaia sent a scorpion to teach him humility. Orion and the scorpion fought, and Zeus placed both in the sky on opposite sides so they would never meet again. This story explains why the constellations are never seen together.
FAQ
What is the best time to view Scorpius?
The best time to view Scorpius is during July and August, especially around 11pm BST. It appears low in the southern sky from the UK.
Why is Scorpius so low in the UK sky?
Because of Earth’s axial tilt, constellations near the celestial equator like Scorpius appear low from northern latitudes. The entire constellation never fully rises above the horizon in the UK.
What does Antares mean and why is it red?
Antares means “rival of Mars.” It appears red because it is a cool red supergiant star, vastly larger than the Sun and nearing the end of its life.
Can I see Scorpius without a telescope?
Yes, the main stars of Scorpius are visible to the naked eye from a dark location. Binoculars will help you see Antares more clearly and pick out fainter stars.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced stargazer, tracking down Scorpius is a rewarding challenge. Use the moon and Antares as your guide, and enjoy the beauty of this zodiacal constellation. For more astronomy tips, check out our other guides on camping and night sky observation.
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