Sextans definitions
| Word backwards | snatxeS |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | Sex-tans |
| Plural | The plural of the word Sextans is Sextantes. |
| Total letters | 7 |
| Vogais (2) | e,a |
| Consonants (5) | s,x,t,n |
About Sextans
Sextans is a dim and faint constellation located in the southern sky. It was created in the 18th century by the French astronomer Joseph Jérôme Lefrançois de Lalande. While it is not a prominent constellation, Sextans can be found between the constellations Leo, Hydra, and Crater.
Stars in Sextans
The brightest star in Sextans is Alpha Sextantis, which is a binary star system consisting of two stars orbiting each other. Other notable stars in this constellation include Beta Sextantis, Delta Sextantis, and Gamma Sextantis. Despite its dim appearance, Sextans does contain some interesting celestial objects worth exploring.
Deep-Sky Objects
One of the most famous deep-sky objects in Sextans is the galaxy NGC 3115, also known as the Spindle Galaxy. This lenticular galaxy is distinctive due to its elongated shape, resembling a spindle. Additionally, Sextans Dwarf Spheroidal Galaxy is a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way located in the Sextans constellation.
Exploration and Observation
Sextans may not be as well-known as other constellations, but it offers astronomers and stargazers an opportunity to observe unique celestial phenomena. Its proximity to other recognizable constellations makes Sextans an interesting area to explore with a telescope or binoculars, especially for those interested in spotting faint galaxies and star clusters.
Conclusion
While Sextans may not capture the attention of casual observers due to its dim appearance, it holds a special place in the night sky for astronomers and enthusiasts. With its interesting stars and deep-sky objects, Sextans offers a glimpse into the vast wonders of the universe.
Sextans Examples
- The constellation Sextans is named after an astronomical instrument used for measuring angles.
- Sextans is a minor constellation located in the southern celestial hemisphere.
- A sextans was an ancient Roman coin equivalent to one-sixth of an as.
- In ancient Rome, a sextans was considered to be a relatively small denomination of currency.
- The Roman province of Africa included the cities of Carthage, Utica, and Sextans.
- A sextans was often used as a unit of measurement for liquids in ancient times.
- The term sextans can refer to one of the twelve zodiac signs.
- Sextans is a southern hemisphere constellation located near Hydra.
- In astronomy, Sextans is a constellation that was introduced in the 17th century.
- During a Roman sacrifice, a sextans of wine would be poured to honor the gods.