aquarius

Aquarius is both a constellation in the southern sky and the eleventh sign of the zodiac. The name derives from Latin for “water-bearer,” and the figure is commonly depicted as a man pouring water from a jar. In astrology, Aquarius is associated with ideas of innovation, humanitarianism, and independence, and the Sun is said to be in Aquarius roughly from January 20 to February 18 each year.

In astronomy, Aquarius lies along the ecliptic between the neighboring constellations Capricornus and Pisces. It is a relatively faint zodiacal constellation, with no very bright stars, though it contains a few notable ones and several deep-sky objects. The International Astronomical Union defines its precise boundaries as a distinct area of the sky. The brightest stars in the pattern are Alpha Aquarii (Sadalmelik) and Beta Aquarii (Sadalsuud).

Mythology and symbolism: In Greek tradition, Aquarius is associated with Ganymede, the cupbearer, or more generally with the water poured to nourish the earth. The symbol of the water jar reflects this theme.

Observation: Aquarius is best viewed from southern latitudes or during autumn evenings for observers in the Northern Hemisphere, since its stars are relatively faint. It is the source region for a number of meteor showers, including the Delta Aquariids, which contribute to annual meteor activity.

Deep-sky objects: The constellation contains the Aquarius Dwarf Galaxy (DDO 210) and other faint galaxies that can be studied with small telescopes.