description Volans Overview
Volans is a constellation in the southern sky representing a flying fish. It appeared as Piscis Volans in Johann Bayer's 1603 star atlas Uranometria, based on observations that Dutch navigators Pieter Dirkszoon Keyser and Frederick de Houtman had made on a voyage to the East Indies. Volans is one of the smaller constellations and contains no bright stars; its brightest star, Beta Volantis, is quite faint. It is bordered by Carina, Pictor, Dorado, Mensa and Chamaeleon.
help Volans FAQ
What does the constellation Volans represent?
Volans represents a flying fish in the southern sky. The constellation is linked to the southern-sky charts made from observations by Dutch navigators.
When did Volans first appear in a star atlas?
Volans appeared as Piscis Volans in Johann Bayer's 1603 star atlas Uranometria. The charting was based on observations made by Pieter Dirkszoon Keyser and Frederick de Houtman.
Can Volans be seen from the Northern Hemisphere?
Volans is a southern constellation, so it is easiest to observe from the Southern Hemisphere. From far-northern locations, much of it remains below the horizon.
Why was Volans originally called Piscis Volans?
Piscis Volans is Latin for flying fish, matching the constellation's figure. The shorter name Volans was later adopted for modern constellation naming.
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