Orion is a prominent constellation between the River Eridanus and the Unicorn on the celestial equator. It is one of the most striking and recognizable constellations in the night sky. The constellation is named after Orion, a hunter in Greek mythology.
Its brightest stars are the blue-white Rigel (β Orionis, Beta Orionis) and the red Betelgeuse (α Orionis, Alpha Orionis).
The middle star of Orion’s Sword (among the 3 belt stars) has the brightest emission nebula (Orion Nebula M42). It can be seen with the naked eye.
| Orion | |
|---|---|
| Latin name | Orion |
| Latin genitive | Orionis |
| Abbreviation | Ori |
| Brightest star | Rigel (β Orionis) |
| Fully visible | 79.5° N to 67.6° S |
| Observation time for Central Europe | August (in the morning sky) – April (in the evening sky) |
