Constellations

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Position in the Sky

Right Ascension: 9 hours
Declination: 20 degrees
Visible between latitudes 90 and -60 degrees
Best seen in March (at 9:00 PM)



Cancer

Cancer is a zodiacal constellation. Like many other constellations, its mythological importance is uncertain; however, the most widely accepted story is that Cancer was the crab sent to harass Hercules while he was on his second labor. As he battled the Lernaean Hydra, the ever-jealous Juno sent Cancer to nip at the hero's heels. The crab was eventually crushed beneath Hercules's feet, but Juno placed it in the heavens as a reward for its faithful service. Cancer may be found between the constellations of Leo and Gemini.

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