Cassiopeia

Cassiopeia is a significant constellation in the northern celestial hemisphere. Its visibility varies with the seasons, being most easily spotted during autumn and winter evenings from mid-northern latitudes. Its distinct "W" or "M" shape, formed by five principal stars, aids in its identification.

Stars

The distinct shape of Cassiopeia is fashioned by Alpha Cassiopeiae (Schedar), Beta Cassiopeiae (Caph), Gamma Cassiopeiae (Navi), Delta Cassiopeiae (Ruchbah), and Epsilon Cassiopeiae (Segin). Gamma Cassiopeiae stands out due to its variability. This star fluctuates irregularly in brightness and is categorized as a "shell star" due to its emission lines and strong stellar wind.

History

In Greek mythology, Cassiopeia, wife of King Cepheus and mother of Princess Andromeda, was known for her immense beauty and vanity. Her boastfulness about her appearance led to her punishment by the sea god Poseidon. Cassiopeia was sentenced to circle the celestial pole, spending half her time upside down—an eternal reminder of her arrogance.

Objects

Messier 52 (M52), an open star cluster, and the Bubble Nebula (NGC 7635), an emission nebula sculpted by the stellar wind from a massive, young central star are deep sky objects located within Cassiopeia.