Circinus – The Compasses

Circinus is one of the 88 constellations within the celestial sphere.

Circinus is one of the 29 constellations that represents an object.

Symbolism: Circinus is also known as ‘The Compasses’

History & Mythology

Circinus was created around 1750 by French astronomer Nicholas Louis De Lacaille. A small constellation that can be located by looking at the near star to us, Alpha Centauri. The constellation represents a Compass for navigators.  

Key Data

Bordering Constellations: Circinus is bordered by constellations Lupus, Triangulum Australe, Centaurus & Musca.  

Sky Chart #: 2.

Star Raking: 85th largest constellation in the celestial sphere. 

Main Stars: Circinus consists of 3 main stars.

Brightest Star: Alpha Circini.

Kids Fun Facts Corner

# 1. Circinus has 2 stars with planets.

# 2. RCW 86 supernova is located Circinus.

# 3. Alpha Circinus is the brightest star in Circinus. 

Q&A Corner

Q. What is Circinus also known as?

Q. How many main stars does Circinus have?

Q. What is the brightest star in Circinus ?

Q. How many stars have planets in Circinus?

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

Download questions about the Circinus Constellation here: Circinus (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 Circinus Constellation visit www.osr.org/circinus