Southern Cross (Noun)
Meaning
A small conspicuous constellation in the southern hemisphere in the Milky Way near Centaurus.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural objects (not man-made).
Examples
- The Southern Cross is a small but prominent constellation visible in the southern hemisphere, best seen from locations south of 25 degrees latitude.
- On a clear night, the Southern Cross constellation can be easily identified in the southern sky by its distinctive cross-shaped pattern.
- Astronomers have used the Southern Cross as a navigational aid for centuries, particularly in the southern hemisphere where it is most visible.
- The Southern Cross is often confused with the smaller, fainter constellation of the False Cross, but can be distinguished by its brighter stars.
- The indigenous cultures of Australia have long revered the Southern Cross, which they knew as "Mirrabooka", a sacred emblem that figured prominently in their mythology.