Star lore
Ophiuchus
Direct answer
Ophiuchus is a large equatorial constellation representing the serpent bearer, with Serpens divided on either side.
Ophiuchus is the Serpent Bearer, a large Milky Way constellation crossed by the ecliptic.
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At a glance
- Found in
- Constellations & Star Lore
- Related
- Norma, Octans, Pavo, Pegasus
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The story behind Ophiuchus
Ophiuchus was one of Ptolemy's constellations and has long been depicted grasping Serpens.
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The Road of the Sun
Where the twelve signs came from, and why they carry the names they do.
Why Ophiuchus matters
Ophiuchus contains Rasalhague, Barnard's Star, numerous globular clusters, and a section of the Sun's apparent annual path.
How to read Ophiuchus
Find it above Scorpius between Sagittarius and Hercules, then use Rasalhague and the broad torso outline.
Ophiuchus in practice: an example
Several Messier globular clusters can be swept up in binoculars west of the constellation's center.
Where readings of Ophiuchus go wrong
The Sun crosses Ophiuchus, but that astronomical fact does not create a new tropical astrological sign.
Sources and editorial method
Research references used for this entry include:
- International Astronomical Union: The Constellations - Official names, abbreviations, and boundaries for the 88 modern constellations.
- NASA Space Place: What Are Constellations? - NASA introduction to constellation regions, patterns, visibility, and seasonal sky changes.
- Source
- The Great Almanac Dictionary
- Category
- Constellations & Star Lore
- Last updated
- 2026-09-26
Cross the ecliptic with the Serpent Bearer
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Common questions
What is Ophiuchus?
Ophiuchus is a large equatorial constellation representing the serpent bearer, with Serpens divided on either side.
What do people get wrong about Ophiuchus?
The Sun crosses Ophiuchus, but that astronomical fact does not create a new tropical astrological sign.
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