ASELLI Meaning and
Definition
-
Aselli refers to a notable star cluster known as the "Asses," which is located in the constellation Canes Venatici. The name "Aselli" is derived from the Latin word "asellus," meaning "donkey" or "ass," due to the resemblance of the star cluster's arrangement to a pair of donkeys. Aselli is comprised of two stars, named Asellus Borealis and Asellus Australis, also known as Chara and Asterion, respectively.
Asellus Borealis, the brighter of the two stars, has a visual magnitude of approximately 4.8 and is situated closer to the celestial equator. Asellus Australis, with a visual magnitude of around 5.2, is located slightly further south. These stars form a distinctive binary system, easily observable with the naked eye under ideal viewing conditions.
Aselli have been recognized and named since ancient times, with their mention dating back to Greek and Roman cultures. They are seen as part of the larger celestial constellation Canes Venatici, which represents the hunting dogs of Boötes, a herdsman in Greek mythology.
Apart from their mythological and cultural significance, Aselli also serve as important navigational and observational aids for astronomers. Due to their close proximity to the celestial equator, they help in determining the equinoctial points and the ecliptic coordinates of celestial objects. They are also used as reference points for visualizing and understanding the positions and movements of other stars and galaxies in the night sky.
Etymology of ASELLI
The word Aselli has its etymology in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word aselus, which means small donkey or donkey foal. The plural form of aselus is aselli. This term was given to two small prominent stars in the constellation Cancer that were likened to two small donkeys. These stars are now commonly known as the Aselli Stars or Asellus Borealis and Asellus Australis.
