The celestial landscape is vast and ever-changing, with stars shifting and constellations evolving over time. In the annals of astronomy, one such lost star, known as Malus, holds a unique place within the grand tapestry of the cosmos.
A Piece of Argo's Broken Hull:
Malus was not an individual star but rather a section within the ancient constellation of Argo Navis. This grand constellation, representing the ship of Jason and the Argonauts from Greek mythology, was once the largest in the sky. However, its sheer size proved cumbersome for practical use, leading to its division into three smaller constellations in the late 18th century: Carina, Puppis, and Vela.
Malus, meaning "mast" in Latin, was the section of Argo Navis that depicted the ship's mast. This region contained numerous stars, including Canopus, the second brightest star in the night sky.
Lost in the Modern Sky:
While Argo Navis remains a historical name, Malus itself is no longer a recognized constellation. The modern International Astronomical Union (IAU) officially divides the sky into 88 constellations, leaving Malus as a relic of a bygone era.
The Legacy of Malus:
Though no longer a formal constellation, Malus's legacy persists in the names of individual stars within the region. For example, the bright star η Carinae is also known as "Aspidiske," a name derived from the ancient Greek term for a wooden shield, referencing Malus's association with the ship's mast.
The story of Malus highlights the dynamic nature of astronomy and the way our understanding of the cosmos evolves over time. It serves as a reminder that even as constellations shift and disappear, the individual stars within them continue to shine, carrying with them tales of ancient myths and the enduring human fascination with the heavens.
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