Name a Star in the Octans Constellation

It was originally published by Lacaille in 1752 in recognition of the octant which had been invented by John Hadley in 1730. The octant (reflecting quadrant) is a navigational tool invented by Sir Isaac Newton. Long before it was given this name, however, it was mentioned by Ovid, Virgil, and Pliny, who probably knew it as Dramasa. The Arabs thought it had healing powers for the sick who gazed upon it. Such was astrology in the year 1000 B.C.  

Octans includes the south celestial pole. Because it is circumpolar, it cannot be viewed north of the Earth’s equator. The constellations that share a border with Octans are Apus, Chamaeleon, Hydrus, Indus, Mensa, Pavo, and Tucana. Octans is unique in that it sits directly over the continent of Antarctica year-round. “Polaris Australis”, also called “Sigma Octanis”, sits close to the celestial south pole. Unlike the northern pole star Polaris, it is not bright enough for navigational purposes. 

The largest star is “Nu Octanis”. This although it is classified as an orange giant, it is not exceedingly bright. It is visible with the naked eye and has an apparent magnitude of 3.8. It is an interesting target for studies of star evolution. Millions of years from now it is expected to be 6000% brighter than it is now. Another interesting star in Octans is “Beta Octantis”. It is the second brightest star in the constellation. Beta Octanis is a 4th magnitude white subgiant star.   

For people living in the southern equator who are looking for a unique and meaningful gift, the International Star Registry offers the opportunity to name a star in the constellation Octans in honor of a special occasion. As a 60th birthday gift idea, you could buy a star gift for a loved one and have their name recorded for eternity. 

Symbol : Oct  

Right Ascension : 09:46  

Declination : -83  

Diameter (°) : 13  

Area (square °) : 291  

Opposition : Aug 17  

Size Rank : 50th  

Brightness Rank : 72nd  

Genitive : Octantis

In conclusion, Octans is the southernmost constellation in the night sky. It is not viewable from the northern hemisphere but is a year-round gem to those living in South America and Australia.