Hydrus

Hydrus is a small southern constellation positioned between the two Magellanic Clouds. Its brightest star, Beta Hydri, is one of the closest reasonably Sun-like stars and has been a target in searches for extraterrestrial intelligence.

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Hydrus is best observed during December. It is located in the SQ1 quadrant and is primarily visible from the southern hemisphere. The constellation contains 3 main stars forming its asterism, with 10 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Beta Hydri.

Mythology & History

Hydrus was introduced by Dutch navigators Keyser and de Houtman in the late 16th century. It represents a small water snake, not to be confused with Hydra, the much larger water serpent. The constellation lies between the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds in the southern sky.