About

Sextans is a faint, minor constellation on the celestial equator which was introduced in 1687 by Polish astronomer Johannes Hevelius. Its name is Latin for the astronomical sextant, an instrument that Hevelius made frequent use of in his observations.

History and mythology

Sextans doesn’t have ancient myths attached to it, as it was introduced relatively recently compared to classical constellations. However, its connection to Johannes Hevelius adds a layer of human history and ingenuity to its story.