Lyra

Lyra is a small but prominent constellation dominated by Vega, the fifth brightest star in the sky and a vertex of the Summer Triangle. Vega served as the northern pole star around 12,000 BC. Lyra contains the Ring Nebula (M57) and Epsilon Lyrae, the famous Double Double star.

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Lyra is best observed during August. It is located in the NQ4 quadrant and is primarily visible from the northern hemisphere. The constellation contains 5 main stars forming its asterism, with 25 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Vega.

Mythology & History

In Greek mythology, Lyra represents the lyre of Orpheus, the legendary musician whose playing could charm all living things. After Orpheus was killed by the Maenads, Zeus placed his lyre among the stars. The lyre was invented by Hermes, who gave it to Apollo, who in turn gave it to Orpheus.