description Columba Overview
Columba is a small constellation in the southern sky depicting a dove, created by Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius in 1592 from stars near Canis Major and included in Johann Bayer's 1603 star atlas Uranometria. It is sometimes named Columba Noae, Noah's dove from the biblical flood story. Its brightest star is Phact, Alpha Columbae, and a notable deep-sky object within its borders is the globular cluster NGC 1851.
help Columba FAQ
Who created the constellation Columba?
Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius created Columba in 1592. He formed it from stars near Canis Major, and Johann Bayer later included it in the 1603 star atlas Uranometria.
What does Columba represent?
Columba represents a dove. It is sometimes called Columba Noae, or Noah's dove, linking the constellation to the biblical story of Noah.
Where can Columba be seen?
Columba is a small constellation in the southern sky. Because of its southern position, it is easier to see from southern latitudes and appears low in the sky for many northern observers.
Which major constellation is near Columba?
Columba lies near Canis Major, the constellation that contains Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. Plancius created Columba from stars in that surrounding region.
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.
