Vela – The Sails

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

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

Symbolism: Vela is also known as ‘The Sails’

History & Mythology

The Vela constellation used to be part of the larger Greek constellation called Argo Navis. Vela represents sails from a ship, a ship called Argo, which was the ship of Jason and the Argonauts.  While Vela was one of the original 48 constellations, it was more accurately charted by French astronomer Nicolas Louis De Lacaille in the 18th century.    

Key Data

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

Sky Chart #: 2

Star Raking: 32nd largest constellation in the celestial sphere. 

Main Stars: Vela consists of 5 main stars.

Brightest Star: Gamma Velorum.

Kids Fun Facts Corner

# 1. Vela has 7 stars with planets.

# 2. At the center of Vela lies the Vela Pulsar which is a densely spinning neutron star.

# 3. Gamma Velorum is the brightest star in Vela.

Q&A Corner

Q. What is Vela also known as?

Q. How many main stars does Vela have?

Q. What is the brightest star in Vela?

Q. How many stars have planets in Vela?

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

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

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

For further reading and more info on the Vela Constellation visit www.constellation-guide.com/Vela