Crux

Crux is the smallest of all 88 constellations but one of the most distinctive. The Southern Cross is one of the most iconic asterisms in the sky, featured on the flags of Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and other southern nations. It contains the Jewel Box Cluster (NGC 4755) and the dark Coalsack Nebula.

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Crux is best observed during May. It is located in the SQ3 quadrant and is primarily visible from the southern hemisphere. The constellation contains 4 main stars forming its asterism, with 19 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Acrux.

Mythology & History

Crux was known to the ancient Greeks but gradually slipped below the European horizon due to precession. It was rediscovered by European navigators in the Age of Exploration. The constellation became an important navigational aid for southern sailors, as its longer axis points approximately toward the south celestial pole.