The constellation of Andromeda is now well placed in the eastern sky, from where it will rise to oversee the entire winter observing season in the north. The chart shows the view looking east from London at about 22.00 BST this week. If you have a good eastern horizon, you will also see Jupiter rising into the night.
Andromeda is one of the 48 constellations listed in the 2nd century by the astronomer Ptolemy. It comes from one of the quintessential Greek myths, where Andromeda was the daughter of Cassiopeia, a vain and boastful woman. Bragging that her daughter (or herself depending on the version of the tale) was more beautiful than the godly sea nymphs, she brought down the wrath of Poseidon on her people.
To appease the god, Andromeda was chained to the rocks and offered to the great sea monster Cetus. But in the nick of time, Perseus slew Cetus, saved Andromeda, and the two of them were married.
As the nights darken and Andromeda rises, keep an eye open for the faint smudge of light that is the Andromeda galaxy. From the southern hemisphere, Andromeda keeps a low profile. In the early hours of the morning, she will be hugging the northern horizon.
