The Canis Major constellation is clearly visible southeast of the prominent Orion constellation.
The three stars of the Orion Belt point directly to Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky and the brightest star of Canis Major. Sirius also marks the southernmost corner of the winter hexagon.
From Central Europe, Canis Major stands deep above the southern horizon in winter.
| Canis Major | |
|---|---|
| Latin name | Canis Major |
| Latin genitive | Canis Majoris |
| Abbreviation | CMa |
| Brightest star | Sirius (α Canis Majoris) |
| Fully visible | 57° N to 90° S |
| Observation time for Central Europe | October – April |
