description Mensa Overview
Mensa is a faint constellation near the south celestial pole, introduced by Nicolas-Louis de Lacaille in 1756 and named after Table Mountain in South Africa, near whose observatory he charted the southern sky. It is the only constellation named after a geographical feature on Earth, and it contains part of the Large Magellanic Cloud, most of which lies in the neighboring constellation Dorado. Its own stars are dim, making it one of the least conspicuous constellations.
help Mensa FAQ
Where is the constellation Mensa located?
Mensa is a faint constellation near the south celestial pole. It is difficult to see from much of the Northern Hemisphere because of its far-southern position.
Who introduced Mensa to astronomy?
French astronomer Nicolas-Louis de Lacaille introduced Mensa in 1756. He created several southern constellations while charting the sky from the Cape of Good Hope.
Why is Mensa named after a mountain?
Mensa is named after Table Mountain in South Africa. Lacaille used the mountain near his observatory as the namesake for the constellation.
What is notable about Mensa's name among constellations?
Mensa is the only modern constellation named after a geographical feature on Earth. Its name means table, referring to Table Mountain.
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.
