Pyxis – The Compass

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

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

Symbolism: Pyxis is also known as ‘The Compass Box’

History

Pyxis is one of the 14 constellations that was devised in the southern sky by French astronomer Nicholas De Lacaille in the 1750’s.  The small constellation is made up of only 3 stars, that is located at the edge of the Milky Way. Pyxis represents a compass.

Key Data

Bordering Constellations: Pyxis is bordered by constellations Antlia, Hydra, Vela & Puppis.

Sky Chart #: 6.

Star Raking: 65th largest constellation in the celestial sphere. 

Main Stars: Pyxis consists of 3 main stars.

Brightest Star: Alpha Pyxidis.

Kids Fun Facts Corner

# 1. Pyxis has 3 stars with planets.

# 2. Deep Sky object NGC 2818 is a Planetary Nebula.

# 3. Alpha Pyxidis is the brightest star in Pyxis.

Q&A Corner

Q. What is Pyxis also known as?

Q. How many main stars does Pyxis have?

Q. What is the brightest star in Pyxis?

Q. How many stars have planets in Pyxis?

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

Download questions about the Pyxis Constellation here: Pyxis 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 Pyxis Constellation visit www.constellation-guide.com/pyxis