Leo

Leo is a large, prominent zodiac constellation easily recognized by the sickle or backward question-mark asterism forming the lion's head. Its brightest star, Regulus, sits almost exactly on the ecliptic. Leo contains the Leo Triplet (M65, M66, and NGC 3628).

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Leo is best observed during April. It is located in the NQ2 quadrant and is primarily visible from the northern hemisphere. The constellation contains 9 main stars forming its asterism, with 52 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Regulus.

Mythology & History

In Greek mythology, Leo represents the Nemean Lion, a beast with an impenetrable hide slain by Heracles as the first of his twelve labors. Unable to kill it with weapons, Heracles strangled the lion and wore its skin as armor. Zeus placed the lion among the stars to commemorate the feat.