Starry Skies: 3 Constellations to Spot on Southern Summer Nights

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Constellations are groups of stars that form shapes. These recognizable shapes are usually named after people, animals, or objects. Constellations were used by Greeks, Babylonians, and Egyptians as a guiding compass and map of the sky, telling people what direction they were going. Since certain constellations only appear during specific times of the year, farmers also used them for agricultural purposes. As of today, there are 88 official constellations.

Did You Know?

Despite popular belief, the Big Dipper is not a constellation. It is considered an asterism. This means it forms a pattern, but it is not an official constellation. The Big Dipper is an asterism that is a part of a constellation called the Ursa Major, or the Great Bear.

How to Find Constellations

You can find constellations with your bare eyes. Go out to a safe place at night, and give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness. Here is where you can use a star wheel to know what shape you’re looking for. A star wheel is an easy and simple way to locate stars and constellations. The star wheel locator shows which constellations appear during a specific time. You can turn it and adjust it to look at what’s in the sky at any hour of the day. Star wheels are designed for certain latitudes, so make sure you find one that provides a latitude that works for your location. You can make a paper star wheel with just two sheets of paper using a guide, or find an online version.

Once you know what you’re looking for, allow yourself to stargaze. If you are looking for a smaller or duller constellation, using a bigger or brighter one to guide you will be helpful. Binoculars are also a good idea to make looking for stars easier and more accessible.

3 Constellations in Southern Summer Nights

#1: Draco

One constellation that can be seen in the South during July is Draco. Draco, also known as the Dragon, is visible around 9pm, and is near the Big and Little Dipper, making it an easier find. Draco has a base of 4 stars that form the shape of a trapezoid. From this trapezoid, there is a straight line that goes up, and then to the right and down a bit, following more stars that form a squiggly pattern similar to a dragon’s body. The ending tail of this dragon weaves between the Big Dipper and the Little Dipper, so it is hard to miss.

#2: Scorpius

Related to the popular zodiac sign Scorpio, Scorpius is visible during July and August nights around 10pm. In the South, it will lie closer to the horizon line. This constellation is easy to locate due to its recognizable shape of a scorpion. It looks like an S, with three vertical lines that resemble claws on one end. This constellation contains a bright, red star called Antares, which is considered the heart of scorpion, and can be used to find the constellation Scorpius quickly.

#3: Hercules

Named after a famous Greek demigod, Hercules can be seen during July and August nights around 10 pm. Although it is a bit harder to see because of its faintness, this constellation is a fun find and definitely achievable. Once you’ve found the head of Draco, half of your work is complete. Near the trapezoid head will be the limbs of Hercules. Hercules has a trapezoid body in the middle, and four lines, one coming from each star that makes up this body. These lines bend as if they were a person moving their arms around and jumping.