Mythology
The Monster Slayer
Perseus was one of Greek mythology’s greatest heroes—a demigod, son of Zeus and the mortal Danaë. His tale is one of bravery, cleverness, and divine favor.
Tasked with the impossible, Perseus set out to slay Medusa, the Gorgon whose gaze turned anyone to stone. With gifts from the gods—including Hermes’ winged sandals, Hades’ invisibility helmet, and Athena’s polished shield—he beheaded her while she slept, using the shield’s reflection to avoid her deadly stare.
On his journey home, he spotted Andromeda chained to a rock, offered as a sacrifice to a sea monster. With Medusa’s head in hand, Perseus turned the beast to stone and saved her, later marrying the princess. In honor of his heroism, the gods placed Perseus in the sky among the stars—sword raised and victorious.
Celestial Facts
Inked Across the Cosmos
- Best viewed in autumn and early winter in the Northern Hemisphere (especially November–December).
- Home to the famous Perseid meteor shower, which peaks every August.
- Includes Algol, known as the Demon Star, one of the first variable stars discovered.
- The constellation appears to stand beside Andromeda, with his arm raised, eternally protecting her in the sky.
Tips!
Spot the Perseids – The Perseid meteor shower is one of the brightest of the year. Watch the skies in mid-August for up to 100 meteors per hour.
Start with Cassiopeia – Look for the distinct “W” shape of Cassiopeia, then trace southeast to locate Perseus near Andromeda.
Use star maps or stargazing apps to help visualize Perseus, especially his sword and the position of the variable star Algol.
Fun Tip: Algol’s brightness visibly dims and brightens over days. It’s the “winking” eye of Medusa, mythologically speaking.