Canes Venatici
Canum Venaticorum · CVn
Canes Venatici is a small northern constellation representing two hunting dogs. It contains several remarkable deep-sky objects including the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51), the Sunflower Galaxy (M63), and the globular cluster M3. Its brightest star, Cor Caroli, was named in honor of King Charles I of England.
Location in the Sky
When to Observe
Canes Venatici is best observed during May. It is located in the NQ3 quadrant and is primarily visible from the northern hemisphere. The constellation contains 2 main stars forming its asterism, with 14 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Cor Caroli.
Mythology & History
Canes Venatici was introduced by Johannes Hevelius in 1687. The two dogs, Asterion and Chara, are held on a leash by neighboring Boötes as they chase the bears Ursa Major and Ursa Minor around the pole. The constellation has no ancient mythological origin.
Stars in Canes Venatici
2 cataloged stars