Connect with us

Outdoor Blog

7 Famous Constellations Everyone Can Find

Published

on

constellation

Many people are amazed by the stars, even those who live in big cities and rarely see the night sky. However, it can sometimes be hard to figure out which set of stars you’re actually looking at. While they all appear during different times of the year, some constellations are easier to find than others. Here are seven constellations that just about everyone can find.

Before the seven constellations, here are some terms that will be used and what they mean! Messier objects is a blanket statement that refers to deep-sky objects that were cataloged by French astronomer Charles Messier in the 18th century. Another way to categorize them is with the broad terms nebulae, star clusters, or galaxies. An asterism is a prominent group of stars that are popular and have a name but are smaller than a constellation.

Ursa Major

Ursa Major is one of the most well-known constellations ever, often referred to as the Big Dipper.

1. Ursa Major (also known as the Big Dipper and the Great Bear)

Ursa Major is the third largest constellation in the sky, and it’s the largest constellation in the northern sky. The brightest stars in it form the Big Dipper asterism, which is one of the most recognizable shapes in the night sky. This constellation dates back to ancient times, and it has references in Homer and the Bible. The most notable story associated with Ursa Major is that of Callisto the nymph.

She promised her chastity to the goddess Artemis, but Zeus fell in love when he saw her. They had a son and named him Arcas, and angered by his infidelity, Zeus’s wife Hera turned Callisto into a bear. Arcas came across his mother as a bear in the woods one day, didn’t recognize her, and drew his sword. Zeus intervened by sending a whirlwind that carried them both into the sky. 

In another story of note, Ursa Major is Adrasteia, a nymph who took care of Zeus when he was a boy on the island of Crete. Zeus’s father, Cronus, was told that one of his children would grow up to overthrow him. Because of this prophecy, Cronus swallowed all of his children. Zeus’s mother, Rhea, snuck Zeus away to Crete, where he would grow up and eventually fulfill the prophecy. 

In more recent history, the Big Dipper played a key role in the Underground Railroad. Because it’s easy to find and points to the North Star, slaves used it to flee their captivity and find their way north. There are so many different stories related to Ursa Major, but these are the most popular. 

Ursa Major is the third largest constellation in the sky, covering an area of 1280 square degrees. It contains 13 Messier objects: Messier 40, Messier 81, Messier 82, Messier 97, Messier 101, Messier 108, and Messier 109.

It also has 22 stars that are formally named by the International Astronomical Union: Alcor, Alioth, Alkaid, Alkaphrah, Alula Australis, Alula Borealis, Aniara, Chalawan, Dombay, Dubhe, Intercrus, Liesma, Megrez, Merak, Mizar, Muscida, Násti, Phecda, Taiyangshou, Talitha, Tania Australis, and Tania Borealis. 13 of its stars have known planets. The best month to view Ursa Major is in April. 

2. Ursa Minor (also known as the Little Dipper and the Little Bear)

This constellation can be very easy to find because it holds the asterism known as the Little Dipper. It is also noteworthy because it marks the location of the north celestial pole, as it’s home to Polaris, also known as the North Star. Many hiking and camping enthusiasts learn how to find the North Star because it will always point you towards true north. It’s the 56th constellation in size, and it occupies an area of 256 square degrees. 

There are two myths commonly associated with Ursa Minor. One myth is that it represents the nymph Ida, who took care of Zeus with Adrasteia when he was young on the island of Crete. Zeus’s mother placed him on the island when his father ate his other siblings because there was a prophecy saying that one of his children would overthrow him one day. Zeus grew up to do that, and he freed his siblings as well. 

The other myth is that the constellation represents Arcas, son of Zeus and the nymph Callisto. Zeus’s wife, Hera, turned Callisto into a bear after hearing that Zeus had betrayed her, and when Arcas came across his mother in the woods, he raised his sword to kill her because he didn’t recognize her. Zeus placed them both in the sky to prevent Arcas from killing his mother. However, Arcas is also associated with a constellation named Bootes. 

Ursa Minor has five named stars, which are Baekdu, Kochab, Pherkad, Polaris, and Yildun. It has no Messier objects and only one of its stars has a known planet. The Ursids is the only meteor shower associated with this constellation. The best time to view Ursa Minor is in June.

3. Orion (also known as the Hunter)

This constellation is named after the Greek hunter, Orion. Orion was the son of Poseidon and was said to be very handsome. There are several myths surrounding him, but the most common is that he fell in love with the Pleiades, also known as the seven sisters. He began to pursue them, and Zeus placed them all in the sky.  

Orion is one of the most well-known constellations, and it lies on the celestial equator. This constellation contains two of the ten brightest stars in the sky: Rigel and Betelgeuse. There are eight other formally named stars in this constellation, and they’re called Alnilam, Alnitak, Bellatrix, Hatysa, Meissa, Mintaka, Saiph, and Tabit. It’s located in the northern hemisphere and can be seen the best in January. 

Orion has three Messier objects: Messier 42, Messier 43, and Messier 78. Seven of its stars have known planets, and there are two meteor showers associated with Orion. There are the Chi Orionids and the Orionids; the latter can be seen during its peak every year around October 21. 

Orion nebula

The Orion nebula shows many beautiful colors that will take your breath away.

4. Cygnus (also known as the Swan and the Northern Cross)

This is the 16th largest constellation in the sky and can be seen in the northern hemisphere. While Cygnus means “swan” in Latin, this constellation is also called the Northern Cross. It’s best seen during the month of September. Cygnus has a few associated myths.

One myth is that Zeus transformed himself into a swan and impregnated the Spartan Queen Leda, who then gave birth to two sets of twins. Her twins by Zeus were immortal and named Pollux and Helen, and the twins she had by her husband King Tyndareus were mortal and named Castor and Clytemnestra. Castor and Pollux also represent the zodiac constellation Gemini.

The other myth is that after Orpheus was killed, he was transformed into a swan by the gods and placed next to his lyre. The other myths involve many people named Cycnus who were known in Greek mythology. The most notable one is about friends Cycnus and Phaeton, who chased each other across the sky and fell back to the earth when they got too close to the sun. 

Cygnus contains six formally named stars, which are Albireo, Aljanah, Azelfafage, Deneb, Fawaris, and Sadr. However, the constellation actually contains ten stars, so four are unnamed. There are two meteor showers associated with the constellation: the October Cygnids and the Kappa Cygnids. The constellation also has ten stars with known planets and two Messier objects, Messier 29 and Messier 39.

5. Lyra (also known as the Lyre)

This constellation is named after a musical instrument called a lyre, which had strings and was used in antiquity and later times. It’s associated with the Greek musician and poet Orpheus, and it was first cataloged by Claudius Ptolemy in the second century. However, Ptolemy believed that Lyra had ten stars as opposed to the six it’s identified to have today.

Lyra belongs to the Hercules family of constellations and can be found in the northern sky. The brightest star in Lyra is called Vega, which is also the fifth brightest star in the sky. The constellation has six formally named stars, which are Aladfar, Sheliak, Sulafat, Vega, Xihe, and Chasoň. These names are approved by the International Astronomical Union. 

Lyra holds two Messier objects – Messier 56 and Messier 57 – and has nine stars with known planets. Three meteor showers are associated with this constellation, and they are the Lyrids, the June Lyrids, and the Alpha Lyrids. The Lyrids peak around April 21-22 every year. This constellation is best viewed in August. 

6. Canis Major (also known as the Greater Dog)

Also known as the “greater dog” in Latin, this constellation represents the famed Greek dog Laelaps. There aren’t many origin stories, but the main theme throughout them is that Laelaps was so fast that Zeus elevated him into the skies. Laelaps has also been referred to as one of Orion’s hunting dogs, trailing behind him in the night sky. The dog has also been said to chase the rabbit, represented by Lepus. 

Canis Major is noteworthy because it contains Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. The constellation looks like a stick figure with Sirius as its head and Adhara, another bright star, at its opposite end. Canis Major is made up of ten formally named stars, all of which are named by the International Astronomical Union. The stars are Adhara, Aludra, Amadioha, Atakoraka, Furud, Mirzam, Muliphein, Sirius, Unurgunite, and Wezen. 

The constellation sits in the southern sky, and it is one of the first 48 Greek constellations cataloged by Claudius Ptolemy in the second century. This constellation can be seen from the southern hemisphere, and the best month to view it is February. There aren’t any meteor showers associated with this constellation. 

7. Cassiopeia

This is the largest constellation in the northern sky, and it is named after a queen in Greek mythology. According to the tale, Cassiopeia was a vain and boastful queen who claimed her beauty was greater than that of sea nymphs. Because of her insult, she was condemned to the sky as a punishment. She is also the mother of Princess Andromeda and the wife of King Cepheus, who both have constellations. 

The constellation forms the shape of a “W” with eight bright stars, which are formally named Achird, Caph, Castula, Fulu, Nushagak, Ruchbah, Schedar, and Segin by the International Astronomical Union. Cassiopeia is one of the first constellations recognized by children because of its easy-to-find nature. It can be seen the best in the northern hemisphere during November. 

Three of Cassiopeia’s stars have known planets, and it contains two Messier objects. The brightest star in the constellation is Schedar. It’s the 25th largest constellation in the night sky, and the Perseid meteor shower is commonly associated with it. 

a globe with zodiac constellations on it

The zodiac constellations are becoming more and more well-known as astrology becomes more and more popular.

There are many more constellations, but the zodiac constellations are very popular because astrology is growing. But first things first, what are the zodiac constellations? They are a group of constellations that lie on the ecliptic, also known as the path of the sun. They were used in ancient times to determine what time of year it was.

There are 12 zodiac constellations: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpius, Sagittarius, Capricornus, Aquarius, and Pisces. Constellations Ophiuchus and Cetus also lie in the path of the sun, but they aren’t considered part of the zodiac family. Ophiuchus belongs to the Hercules family, and Cetus belongs to the Perseus family. 

Pisces, Aries, Gemini, Taurus, Cancer, and Leo are known as the northern zodiac constellations and are located in the eastern celestial hemisphere. Virgo, Libra, Scorpius, Sagittarius, Capricornus, and Aquarius are known as the southern zodiac constellations and are located in this western celestial hemisphere. 

The largest of the 12 zodiac constellations is Virgo, covering 1294.43 square degrees of the southern sky. Virgo is associated with the Greek goddess of justice, Dike. She saw that the humans weren’t obeying the gods like they used to and gave a speech to warn them. They didn’t listen to her, so she fled to the heavens. The best time to see Virgo is between May and June. Those born between August 23 and September 22 are considered Virgos. 

The second-largest zodiac constellation is Aquarius, which spreads over 979.85 square degrees. Aquarius also represents Ganymede, who was the cup bearer to the gods in Greek mythology. The best time to view Aquarius is between October and November. However, its corresponding sign of the same name is categorized as people born between January 20 and February 18. 

Leo is the third largest at 946.96 square degrees, and it represents the Nemean lion that Hercules killed as a part of his 12 labors. It’s associated with the Leo sign, which is people who were born between July 23 and August 22. The best time to view Leo is in April.

Pisces covers 889.417 square degrees, making it the fourth largest. The myth commonly associated with Pisces is Roman. It says that Venus and Cupid tied themselves together and transformed into a fish to escape a monster named Typhon. The astrology sign Pisces is people born between February 19 and March 20. You can see Pisces between November and December. 

Sagittarius is the fifth largest, spreading across 867.43 square degrees. In Greek mythology, it represents a centaur who is shooting an arrow at the heart of the neighboring constellation Scorpius. The best month to view Sagittarius is September; however, people who have the Sagittarius astrological sign are born between November 22 and December 21. 

Taurus is commonly associated with the myth that says Zeus transformed himself into a bull to charm and kidnap Europa, the daughter of the Phoenician King Agenor. Taurus stretches over 797.25 square degrees and is best seen in January. People with the astrological sign Taurus are born between April 20 and May 20.

Libra is 538.05 square degrees and can best be seen during July. Ancient Greeks called the Libra constellation Chelae because they thought of it as part of the Scorpius constellation. Chelae mean claws, so they considered Libra to be the scorpion’s claws. People who have the Libra astrology sign are born between September 23 and October 22.

Gemini can be seen the best during February, and it covers 513.7 square degrees. In Greek legend, Castor and Pollux were children of the Spartan Queen Leda. Only Pollux was immortal because he was the one of Zeus, and when Castor died in a battle, Pollux asked his father to make his brother immortal as well. Zeus placed them both in the sky together. The Gemini astrological sign is for people who were born between May 21 and June 20.

Cancer covers 505.87 square degrees, and it means “crab” in Latin. Those with the Cancer sign are born between June 21 and July 22. However, the best time to view Cancer is in March. In Greek mythology, Hera sent the crab to distract Hercules while he was fighting the Hydra to complete his 12 labors. Hercules was so mad that he kicked it to the stars. 

Scorpius corresponds to an astrology sign called Scorpio, which refers to people born between October 23 and November 21. It covers an area of 496.78 square degrees and can be seen the best in August. It’s associated with the story of Orion and represents the scorpion that killed Orion.

Aries is most visible in the month of December, but you’ll have to look really hard because it only covers an area of 441.39 square degrees. In Greek mythology, Aries is identified with the golden ram that rescued Phrixus and took him to Colchis, where he sacrificed the ram to the gods. Those with the Aries sign are born between March 21 and April 19. 

Capricornus is the smallest of the zodiac constellations; it only covers 413.95 square degrees. The Greeks associated the constellation with the forest deity Pan, who had the legs and horns of a goat. Zeus placed him in the sky to show his gratitude towards Pan. Capricornus can be seen the best in October. The astrological sign that goes with the constellation is called Capricorn and refers to people who are born between December 22 and January 19. 

Continue Reading

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

on

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

 

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

 

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

 

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

 

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

 

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

 

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

 

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

 

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

 

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

 

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

 

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

 

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

 

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

 

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Continue Reading

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

on

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

 

Choosing Your Adventure

 

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

 

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

 

Plan a Camping Trip

 

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

 

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

 

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

 

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

 

Map Your Route

 

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

 

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

 

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

 

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

 

Pack Smart

 

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Continue Reading

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

on

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

 

Continue Reading

Trending