Constellation (Poetry)

14. Canis Major

Canis Major: The Greater Dog of the Southern Sky

Canis Major, often simply referred to as "Canis Major," is one of the most prominent and recognizable constellations in the southern celestial hemisphere. In this informative essay, we will explore the historical significance, notable stars, and celestial wonders associated with Canis Major, shedding light on its enduring presence in human culture and modern astronomy.

Historical Significance:
Canis Major has a long history, with its origins tracing back to ancient civilizations. In Greek mythology, it is often associated with the story of Laelaps, a mythical dog that was said to be so fast it could catch anything it chased. The constellation is also linked to the great hunting dog of Orion, the mighty hunter. Canis Major was cataloged by the Greek astronomer Ptolemy in the 2nd century and has been recognized by various cultures throughout history.

Notable Stars and Features:
The most famous star in Canis Major is Sirius (Alpha Canis Majoris), also known as the "Dog Star." Sirius is not only the brightest star in Canis Major but is also the brightest star in the night sky. Its brilliance and its prominent position near Orion's feet make it a striking sight. In ancient Egypt, the rising of Sirius just before dawn marked the beginning of the annual flooding of the Nile River, a vital event in the Egyptian calendar.

Astronomical Significance:
Canis Major's connection to Sirius has made it an object of great interest in astronomy. Sirius is a binary star system, consisting of a bright, white main-sequence star (Sirius A) and a faint white dwarf companion (Sirius B). This binary system has played a crucial role in the study of stellar evolution and is one of the closest stellar systems to our solar system.

Canis Major, the Greater Dog constellation, holds a special place in human culture and astronomy. Its association with the brilliant Sirius and its rich mythological history make it a prominent feature of the night sky. Whether viewed through the lens of ancient legends or explored through the tools of modern science, Canis Major continues to inspire wonder and curiosity about the vastness of the cosmos.

𓈒 𓂃  ˖ 𓇬 ˖  𓂃 𓈒

The nights are changing fast,
Growing up with no aim to be the last.
With every day gone by quickly,
The aging process kicks in slowly.

Loved ones took their last breath,
Acquainted ones had also faced death.
Every death, a painful reminder of fate,
Everything once born has an expiry date.

So happy to see myself growing,
Cried to myself as mom too is aging.
Soon to hit the mighty eighteen,
For mom, fifty-eight will be seen.

Had many dreams of being an adult,
Tons of realizations to detect my fault.
Never too late or too early for anything,
But missing the naive phase was everything.

It's fascinating to see how fast the night changes,
As there are many doors with rusted hinges.
Never ready to forever lose anyone.
But had to accept the reality of no one.

Many responsibilities to take care of.
For that, days give the biggest proof.
Nothing but everything to worry,
Anyway, now I'm mastering curry.

Deaths never shook me down,
Always painted a neutral frown.
But is always worried about my demise,
Can't bear to see my family's lack of bliss.

To every deceased ones out there,
This is my condolences from here.
Will reach you sooner or later,
Doesn't matter when but never a hater.

𓈒 𓂃  ˖ 𓇬 ˖  𓂃 𓈒

Ardra