Crux – The Southern Cross

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

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

Symbolism: Crux is also known as ‘The Southern Cross’

History & Mythology

The smallest constellation of all in the celestial sphere, sitting between the legs of constellation Centaurus, Crux is very distinctive due to it’s 4 very bright main stars. Mapped in 1598 by cartographer Petrus Plancius, Crux represents the southern cross and was once called Crux Australis. The southern end of the cross is marked by it’s brightest star.    

Key Data

Bordering Constellations: Crux is bordered by constellations Musca & Centaurus.

Sky Chart #: 2.

Star Raking: 88th largest constellation in the celestial sphere. 

Main Stars: Crux consists of 4 main stars.

Brightest Star: Alpha Crucis.

Kids Fun Facts Corner

# 1. Crux has 2 stars with planets.

# 2. Crux is home ‘The Jewel Box Cluster’ 

# 3. Alpha Crucis is the brightest star in Crux.

Q&A Corner

Q. What is Crux also known as?

Q. How many main stars does Crux have?

Q. What is the brightest star in Crux?

Q. How many stars have planets in Crux?

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

Download questions about the Crux Constellation here: Crux (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 Crux Constellation visit www.wiki.kidzsearch.com/Crux