Cancer

Cancer is a relatively faint zodiac constellation between Gemini and Leo. Its most notable feature is the Beehive Cluster (M44), one of the nearest open clusters to Earth and visible to the naked eye. Cancer also contains M67, one of the oldest known open clusters.

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Cancer is best observed during March. It is located in the NQ2 quadrant and is primarily visible from the northern hemisphere. The constellation contains 5 main stars forming its asterism, with 23 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Tarf.

Mythology & History

In Greek mythology, Cancer represents the crab sent by Hera to distract Heracles during his battle with the Lernaean Hydra. Heracles crushed the crab underfoot, but Hera placed it among the stars as a reward for its service. It is one of the faintest zodiac constellations.