Sco - Scorpius the Scorpion

Intro and Visual description

East of Virgo along the ecliptic the constellation Scorpius creeps above the treetops, with his menacing tail below, and stinger above. Continue eastward along the ecliptic to the next constellation, Sagittarius the Archer.

Special Stars

Reddish heart Antares, can rival Mars.

Origin and History

Scorpius is included in the ancient star catalogs of Eudoxos of Knidos, Aratos of Soli, and Ptolemy.

In Roman times, the vernal equinox was located in Libra.

Skylore, Literature and Culture

Gaia sent Scorpius to kill Orion; now they circle on opposite sides of the sky.

Fish-hook to Polynesians.