Octans – The Octant

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

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

Symbolism: Octans is also known as ‘The Octant’

History & Mythology

Octans is a mid sized constellation in a barren part of the night sky, with very few significant celestial objects. Devised by French astronomer Nicolas Loius de Lacaille in the 1750’s, the constellation represents a navigational instrument. The most notable feature in Octans is Sigma Octantis, which I sthe nearest star to the naked eye in the south celestial pole.  

Key Data

Bordering Constellations: Octans is bordered by constellations Hydrus, Tucana, Mensa, Indus, Chamaeleon, Pavo & Apus.  

Sky Chart #: 2.

Star Raking: 50th largest constellation in the celestial sphere. 

Main Stars: Octans consists of 3 main stars.

Brightest Star: Nu Octantis.

Kids Fun Facts Corner

# 1. Octans has 3 stars with planets.

# 2. Gamma Octantis is a chain of 3 stars.  

# 3. Nu Octantis is the brightest star in Octans.

Q&A Corner

Q. What is Octans also known as?

Q. How many main stars does Octans have?

Q. What is the brightest star in Octans?

Q. How many stars have planets in Octans? 

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

Download questions about the Octans Constellation here: Octans Constellation  (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 Octans Constellation visit www.universeguide.com/Octans