Columba


Columba


English nameDove

Major
stars
alpha ColumbaePhactmagn. 2,7RA: 05h 39m 38.95sDec: -34° 04' 27.0"
beta ColumbaeWaznmagn. 3,2RA: 05h 50m 57.58sDec: -35° 46' 07.0"

DescriptionSmall constellation situated to the southwest of Canis Maior. It doesn't contain any particularly interesting objects, besides a globular cluster, NGC 1851, of seventh magnitude.

Mythology
and history
This constellation was invented by the Dutch astronomer and theologian Petrus Plancius in 1592. It represents the dove which Noah freed after the end of the Deluge.


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