Constellation

Fornax

Modern Western (IAU)
Origin from 1756

Fornax is one of the 88 modern constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union. Its genitive form is Fornacis, its standard abbreviation is For, it is traditionally shown as the brazier. It belongs to the La Caille family of constellations and lies in the first quadrant of the southern hemisphere. The constellation covers about 398 square degrees of sky, ranking 41st in size among the 88. Its brightest star is α For at apparent magnitude 3.80. It borders Cetus, Sculptor, Phoenix and Eridanus. In this atlas the entity is the shared sky reference for astronomical objects catalogued by constellation, so every star, nebula or galaxy located within Fornax resolves to one identity.

Facts
Classification
IAU Status
IAU Recognized 2
Origins
Origin Period
from 1756 1
Sources
1. Fornax (Wikipedia)
  • Wikipedia, Fornax, lead section and infobox
    Fornax is one of the 88 modern constellations.
  • Lead section: origin year
    It was named by French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille in 1756.
View the Source
2. Wikipedia
Wikimedia Foundation
  • IAU Status: IAU Recognized
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