Prescott Astronomy Club
Exploring the Zodiac: Aries
The Ram in the Night Sky
The distinctive shape of Aries, featuring its brightest stars.
Key Celestial Facts
- Abbreviation: Ari
- Genitive: Arietis
- Area: 441 square degrees
- Brightest Star: Hamal (Alpha Arietis)
- Best Visible: December
- Zodiac Position: First Sign
The Fiery Ram
Aries, the Ram, is one of the most recognizable constellations of the zodiac, marking the start of the astrological year. It is located in the Northern Celestial Hemisphere between Pisces and Taurus.
While not the brightest constellation, its main stars—Hamal, Sheratan, and Mesarthim—form a distinctive curved line resembling the ram's horns. In mythology, Aries often represents the golden-fleeced ram of Greek legend.
For astronomers, Aries is home to several fascinating deep-sky objects, including the spiral galaxy NGC 772 and the faint dwarf irregular galaxy NGC 1156.
Observing Aries
Location
Look for Aries high in the autumn and winter sky. Use the Great Square of Pegasus as a starting guide.
Stars
Hamal (magnitude 2.0) is an orange giant and your primary guidepost. A small telescope reveals its subtle hue.
Clubs & Viewing
The Prescott Astronomy Club often features Aries in its fall "Zodiac Tour" star parties. Check our event schedule.
Myth & History
In Greek mythology, Aries represents the Chrysomallus, the flying ram with golden fleece that rescued Phrixus and Helle. After its sacrifice, its fleece became the sought-after Golden Fleece of Jason and the Argonauts fame.
The constellation has been recognized since ancient Babylonian times, where it was associated with an agrarian worker. Its position at the vernal equinox in ancient times cemented its importance as the "first" zodiac sign.