Gemini

Gemini is a prominent zodiac constellation dominated by Castor and Pollux. Pollux was the first star confirmed to have an exoplanet. The Geminid meteor shower, one of the year's best, radiates from this constellation each December.

Location in the Sky

When to Observe

Gemini is best observed during February. It is located in the NQ2 quadrant and is primarily visible from the northern hemisphere. The constellation contains 8 main stars forming its asterism, with 47 Bayer/Flamsteed designated stars in total. Its brightest star is Pollux.

Mythology & History

In Greek mythology, Gemini represents the twins Castor and Pollux (the Dioscuri), sons of Leda. Castor was mortal (fathered by King Tyndareus) while Pollux was immortal (fathered by Zeus). When Castor died, Pollux asked Zeus to share his immortality, and they were placed together in the sky.