vulpecula
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Proper noun A small, faint constellation in the northern celestial hemisphere. Its name is Latin for "little fox."
Usage
- Vulpecula is one of the 88 modern constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union.
- It is located within the Summer Triangle, an asterism formed by the bright stars Vega, Altair, and Deneb.
- The constellation Vulpecula contains notable deep-sky objects, such as the Dumbbell Nebula (M27).
Examples
- Astronomers study planetary nebulae located in Vulpecula.
- To find the Coathanger asterism, look within the boundaries of Vulpecula.
- Vulpecula was first defined by the astronomer Johannes Hevelius in the 17th century.
Advanced Usage
- In astronomical catalogues, stars within Vulpecula are often designated with the genitive form "Vulpeculae" (meaning "of the fox").
- Example: "The star Alpha Vulpeculae is the brightest in the constellation."
Variants and Related Words
- Vulpeculae (noun): The genitive (possessive) form used in star names and astronomical contexts (e.g., "the stars of Vulpecula").
- The Fox (noun): The English translation of the constellation's name.
Synonyms
- The Little Fox
- The Fox (constellation)
Notes
- Vulpecula is often depicted with a goose in its jaws (Anser), forming the obsolete constellation "Vulpecula et Anser" (the Fox and the Goose).
- It is not associated with prominent mythology but is a modern constellation created to fill gaps in the celestial map.
Noun
- a constellation in the northern hemisphere near Cygnus and Sagitta