In Greek mythology, the constellation of Cetus, the Sea Monster, looms large in the southern sky this month. The constellation, often seen as a whale breaching from the sea, was believed to be a sea monster that wreaked havoc on the coastlines at the command of Poseidon, the god of the sea. Cetus played a significant role in the Perseus/Andromeda story, where he was defeated by the hero Perseus to save Andromeda from becoming his meal.
Cetus is also home to various astronomical objects to observe, including the star Mira and Tau Ceti, a star similar to our sun and one of the closest stars to Earth. Scientists have discovered multiple planets orbiting Tau Ceti, including a “Super-Earth” potentially capable of harboring life.
The constellation of Cetus evokes the fear and mystery of the vast oceans in ancient Greek mythology. However, looking at Cetus today should inspire awe and wonder at the possibilities of new worlds waiting to be explored. Tom Burns, former director of the Perkins Observatory, invites us to gaze at Cetus in the autumn sky and contemplate the boundless potential of the universe.
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Photo credit www.delgazette.com
