Pegasus

Pegasus is a large northern constellation best known for the Great Square of Pegasus, a prominent asterism that serves as a key reference for navigating the autumn sky. It contains the globular cluster M15 and the spiral galaxy NGC 7331.

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Pegasus is best observed during October. It is located in the NQ4 quadrant and is primarily visible from the northern hemisphere. The constellation contains 9 main stars forming its asterism, with 48 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Enif.

Mythology & History

In Greek mythology, Pegasus was the winged horse that sprang from the blood of Medusa when Perseus beheaded her. Bellerophon tamed Pegasus with a golden bridle from Athena and rode him to slay the Chimera. When Bellerophon tried to fly to Olympus, Zeus sent a gadfly that threw the rider.