Corona Borealis

Corona Borealis, known as the Northern Crown, graces the northern celestial hemisphere. Its notable semicircular shape, resembling a regal crown or horseshoe, makes it easily recognizable against the backdrop of the night sky. Corona Borealis is best sighted during late spring and early summer in the Northern Hemisphere.

Stars

While not abundant in bright stars, the most prominent in Corona Borealis is Alphecca (Alpha Coronae Borealis), shining as the brightest star within the constellation. Alphecca is a binary star system situated approximately 75 light-years away from Earth, adding a modest yet discernible glow to this stellar arrangement.

History

The lore surrounding Corona Borealis ties back to Greek mythology, where it is linked to the romantic tale of Bacchus (Dionysus) and Ariadne. Legend has it that Bacchus, to demonstrate his affection for Ariadne, tossed her crown into the heavens, where it transformed into the constellation Corona Borealis—a celestial emblem of eternal love and devotion.

Galaxies

While lacking in prominent deep-sky objects, Corona Borealis hosts some intriguing celestial bodies. Notably, the constellation features NGC 6085 and NGC 6086, a pair of interacting galaxies, adding astronomical interest to its otherwise modest stellar features.