The constellation Cassiopeia, the Queen, is one that many stargazers learn early on. This is because of its obvious 'W' shape, representing the Throne, and because it is circumpolar for us -- being so close to the North Celestial Pole and Polaris, it is always above the horizon, day and night.
To find Cassiopeia, first find the Big Dipper. Use its pointer stars to find Polaris but keep going to find the large 'W'. From a dark sky site, you'll see that a bright section of our Milky Way flows through Cassiopeia making it rich with stars and clusters.
Cassiopeia, in Greek mythology, was the Queen of Ethiopia. One particular story ties her to five other Fall constellations. In this story she is married to Cepheus, the King. Their daughter is Andromeda. Cassiopeia's incessant bragging about Andromeda's beauty greatly annoys the god Neptune so he calls on Cetus, the Sea Monster, to devour Andromeda. However, Perseus, the Warrior, who rides on Pegasus, the Flying Horse, saves Andromeda just in time. Perhaps a warning to parents?
There's lots to explore in Cassiopeia with binoculars or a telescope. One target in particular that makes stargazers laugh out loud when seeing it for the first time is the Owl Cluster.
Viewing Cassiopeia, the Queen
Level
Easy
Rating
Best Viewing
September through February
Find
The easiest way to find Cassiopeia is to first find the Big Dipper and use its pointer stars to find Polaris, the North Star. Keep going in the same direction until you find the large 'W' of Cassiopeia. If you need help, check out How To: Finding North.
Try drawing Cassiopeia with bright stars, lines and labels.
The Milky Way flows through Cassiopeia. With binoculars, explore its thousands of stars and numerous clusters. Take time and enjoy.
