Abbreviation:

Cet

English name:

Whale

Coordinates

see Stellar data

Particulars:

• Double stars alpha Cet, gamma Cet, epsilon Cet
• Variable stars omicron Cet, T Cet
• Nearby star tau Cet
• Spiralgalaxy M 77 (Seyfert-Galaxy), NGC 1055, NGC 247
• Planetary nebula NGC 246
• Meteor Showers: October Cetids Eta Cetids Omicron Cetids

General:

A large constellation streching along the celestial equator in the range from just below DECL=0h to DECL=3h 25m and RA= -25 to RA= +10 degrees.

Stars and other objects

The red giant omicron Cet, known as Mira, is the prototype of the long-period variable stars. The brightness changes from 3rd mag to 9th mag within 330 days. This variability was first noticed by the Dutch astronomer David Fabricius in 1596.
Another interesting star is beta Cet, if not for the amateur observer but for the scientist. The star shows a strongs X-ray radiation. Observations with the Chandra X-Ray Observatory revealed some more information and pictures.

Mythological Background: