Canis Major – The Greater Dog

Canis Major is one of the 88 constellations within the celestial sphere.

Canis Major is one of the 42 constellations that represents an animal.

Symbolism: Canis Major is also known as ‘The Greater Dog’

History & Mythology

Canis Major is one of the ancient constellations and is the larger of Orion’s two hunting dogs. The constellation sits at the heel of it’s master Orion, and is next to the smaller constellation of Canis Minor, The Little Dog. Canis Major represents Laelaps, the mythical dog who’s prey couldn’t escape him. The constellation hosts the brightest star on the whole nights sky, the star Sirius. This star is quite an average star, however is so bright in the sky as its so close to us.

Key Data

Bordering Constellations: Canis Major is bordered by constellations Puppis, Monoceros, Lepus & Columba.

Sky Chart #: 6.

Star Raking: 43rd largest constellation in the celestial sphere. 

Main Stars: Canis Major consists of 8 main stars.

Brightest Star: Sirius.

Kids Fun Facts Corner

# 1. Canis Major has 8 stars with planets.

# 2. The brightest star in the night sky is in Canis Major.

# 3. Sirius is the brightest star in Canis Major.

Q&A Corner

Q. What is Canis Major also known as?

Q. How many main stars does Canis Major have?

Q. What is the brightest star in Canis Major?

Q. How many stars have planets in Canis Major?

Q. What number star ranking is Canis Major in the celestial sphere?

Download questions about the Canis Major Constellation here: Canis Major (answers are on this page)

Teachers. For more in depth work sheets on constellations. Click on Kidskonnect Worksheets  

For further reading and more information on the Canis Major Constellation visit http://www.astronomytrek.com/interesting-facts-about-the-constellation-canis-major/