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Perseus

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description Perseus Overview

Perseus is a northern constellation originally cataloged by the astronomer Ptolemy in the 2nd century. Named after the Greek mythological hero who slew Medusa, the constellation is positioned in the Milky Way band between Cassiopeia and Taurus. It is distinguished by containing the eclipsing binary Algol, also known as the Demon Star, which was one of the first variable stars discovered. Amateur astronomers often observe the Perseus Arm of the galaxy and the bright Double Cluster within its boundaries.

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What is the Perseus constellation named after?

Perseus is named after the Greek hero who killed Medusa and rescued Andromeda. The constellation was included in Ptolemy's 2nd-century catalog and remains one of the prominent northern constellations. [Martz Observatory](https://martzobservatory.org/constellations/detail/Per)

Where is Perseus located in the night sky?

Perseus lies in the Milky Way between Cassiopeia and Taurus. It is especially rich in star clusters because the constellation lies along a dense region of our galaxy. [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perseus_%28constellation%29)

What is Algol in Perseus?

Algol, or Beta Persei, is an eclipsing multiple-star system traditionally associated with Medusa's eye. Its brightness changes on a cycle of about 2.87 days as stars in the system pass in front of one another. [Martz Observatory](https://martzobservatory.org/constellations/detail/Per)

Does Perseus contain the Double Cluster and the Perseids?

Yes. The Double Cluster consists of the open clusters NGC 869 and NGC 884, while the annual Perseid meteor shower appears to radiate from the direction of Perseus. The Perseids usually peak in August. [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perseus_%28constellation%29)

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