Dictionary term
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.
Ophiuchus is the Serpent Bearer, a large Milky Way constellation crossed by the ecliptic.
A symbolic locator, not a substitute for an observational chart at a specific place and time.Quick reference
- Use when
- Find it above Scorpius between Sagittarius and Hercules, then use Rasalhague and the broad torso outline.
- Do not use it for
- The Sun crosses Ophiuchus, but that astronomical fact does not create a new tropical astrological sign.
- Reference category
- Constellations & Star Lore
- Related terms
- 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.
Ophiuchus in spiritual tradition
Ophiuchus makes the difference between measured sky boundaries and symbolic zodiac systems especially clear.
Ophiuchus: fact and faith, kept distinct
This is a factual sky reference. It can support wonder and orientation without turning a measured position or inherited pattern into a claim of fate or private revelation.
Ophiuchus in numerology
Ophiuchus is not a numerology claim. Any numbers attached to it should retain their ordinary scientific, calendrical, navigational, or historical meaning unless a separate symbolic interpretation is clearly labeled.
Why Ophiuchus matters
It contains Rasalhague, Barnard's Star, numerous globular clusters, and a section of the Sun's apparent annual path.
Ophiuchus at work: an example
Several Messier globular clusters can be swept up in binoculars west of the constellation's center.
Where interpretation stops
Ophiuchus is presented as sourced astronomy, calendrical, Earth-science, cultural, or instrument-history reference. Definitions should distinguish measured phenomena from civil convention and historical interpretation, preserve location and time dependencies, and avoid turning factual sky data into a deterministic personal claim.
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
- Also appears in
- Constellations & Star Lore
- Aliases
- None listed
- Last updated
- 2026-07-16
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.
How is Ophiuchus used in an almanac?
Find it above Scorpius between Sagittarius and Hercules, then use Rasalhague and the broad torso outline.
What should I avoid when interpreting Ophiuchus?
The Sun crosses Ophiuchus, but that astronomical fact does not create a new tropical astrological sign.
