Cancer

Cancer

Abbreviation:
Cnc
Genitive:
Cancri
Translation:
The Crab
Right Ascention:
6h 0m
Declination:
70°

This constellation is part of the Zodiac

While Hercules was busy fighting the multi-headed monster, Hydra, the goddess Hera, who did not like Hercules, sent the Crab to distract him. Cancer grabbed onto the hero's toe with its claws, but barely breaking the rhythm of his great battle with Hydra, Hercules crushed the crab with his foot. Hera, grateful for the little crustacean's heroic but pitiful effort, gave it a place in the sky.

Messier Objects in this Constellation

NGC Objects in this Constellation