| Ophiuchus (The Serpent Bearer) |
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A large constellation straddling the celestial equator. It was one of the 48 constellations listed by Ptolemy (c. AD 140). The mythological figure of the serpent holder is sometimes identified with the healer Aesculapius. Though Ophiuchus is not traditionally a zodiacal constellation, the ecliptic passes through its southern part. It contains five stars of second magnitude and seven of third magnitude. Barnard's Star also lies in Ophiuchus. See also: Table 4. |