description Hirudo Overview
Hirudo was an obsolete constellation proposed by the English naturalist John Hill in Urania, published in 1754. It represented a leech, reflecting Hill's practice of adding small animal figures to the sky charts of his period. Like Aranea, the Long-Legged Spider, Hirudo did not enter the constellation system used by modern astronomers and is not among the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union. [Former constellations](https://www.constellation-guide.com/constellations/former-constellations/)
help Hirudo FAQ
Who proposed Hirudo as a constellation?
The English naturalist John Hill proposed Hirudo in Urania, published in 1754. He represented it as a leech on his historical sky charts.
Is Hirudo an official constellation today?
No. Hirudo was not retained when modern constellation boundaries were standardized, and it is not among the 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union.
What other constellation did John Hill place near Hirudo?
Hill's proposed animal figures included Aranea, the Long-Legged Spider, and Limax, the Slug. These additions were part of his attempt to expand the traditional constellation set.
Can I find Hirudo on a modern star map?
You will not find Hirudo as an official region with modern boundaries. It can appear only on historical charts or in reference works discussing John Hill's obsolete constellations.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
