Alton Brobst When it comes to astronomy and space, the stars have always been a source of curiosity and wonder. One of the most interesting connections in the sky is between the Pleiades and Subaru. The Pleiades, a small dipper-shaped group of stars, has a long history in mythology and folklore, while the Subaru constellation has become a global car brand. In this article, we will explore the connection between these two astronomical wonders and how they have captured the imagination of people for centuries.
The Mythology of Pleiades
The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is a cluster of stars located in the constellation of Taurus. In Greek mythology, the Pleiades were seven sisters born to the Titan Atlas and the sea-nymph Pleione. The sisters were named Maia, Electra, Alcyone, Taygete, Asterope, Celaeno, and Merope. According to the myth, the Pleiades were pursued by the hunter Orion, and Zeus transformed them into stars to protect them.
Different cultures have their variations of the myth of Pleiades. In Japan, the Pleiades are known as Subaru, which means "to unite" or "gathering together." In their mythology, the stars were the daughters of the god Susano’o, who was banished from heaven. The sisters were turned into stars by the gods after they became upset with their father.
Subaru Constellation and Its Connection to the Pleiades
Subaru is not just a global car brand; it is also a constellation in the night sky. The six brightest stars in the constellation form the shape of a Japanese car manufacturer’s logo. Interestingly, Subaru means "unite" or "gathering together" even in the Japanese language.
The connection between the Pleiades and Subaru is not just in their mythology but also their position in the sky. The Subaru constellation is situated in a part of the sky that corresponds to the location of the Pleiades in the sky. The six brightest stars in Subaru reflect the stars of the Pleiades, which is why the constellation is also known as "The Seven Sisters" in Japan.
The Science Behind the Connection
The connection between the Pleiades and Subaru is not just a coincidence. The Pleiades cluster is located about 400 light-years away from Earth, while the Subaru constellation is about 415 light-years away. This close proximity is why the six brightest stars in Subaru reflect the stars of the Pleiades.
The Pleiades and Subaru are both hot, young stars, which is another connection between the two. The Pleiades cluster is made up of over 1,000 stars, while Subaru has approximately 250 stars. Both the Pleiades and Subaru are easily visible in the night sky and a popular target for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.
Different Cultures’ Views on the Pleiades
The Pleiades have been a significant part of many different cultures and their mythology, from the Aboriginal Australians to the Mayans and the Greeks. In some traditions, the Pleiades are associated with agriculture and the harvest season. In other cultures, it is considered a significant time marker, with the Pleiades rising in the sky at the beginning of winter or spring.
In Japanese culture, the star cluster is associated with the Tanabata Festival, where two stars, Vega and Altair, cross paths and are allowed to be together. It is a celebration of the gathering of the stars, which is why the Japanese name for the star cluster is Subaru.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the connection between the Pleiades and Subaru is fascinating, with its roots in mythology and science. From the Greek and Japanese mythology to the science of their proximity and shared characteristics, the Pleiades and Subaru have a unique connection that has captured the minds of people for centuries. They are a reminder that the universe is vast and full of wonders that we are still discovering and exploring.
FAQ
What is the Pleiades cluster, and where is it located?
The Pleiades cluster is a group of stars located in the constellation of Taurus, approximately 400 light-years away from Earth.
What is the connection between the Pleiades and Subaru?
The Subaru constellation is situated in a part of the sky that corresponds to the location of the Pleiades in the sky. The six brightest stars in Subaru reflect the stars of the Pleiades, which is why the constellation is also known as "The Seven Sisters" in Japan.
What is the mythology behind the Pleiades?
According to Greek mythology, the Pleiades were seven sisters born to the Titan Atlas and the sea-nymph Pleione. The sisters were pursued by the hunter Orion, and Zeus transformed them into stars to protect them.
Why is the Pleiades important in different cultures?
The Pleiades have been a significant part of many different cultures and their mythology, from the Aboriginal Australians to the Mayans and the Greeks. In some traditions, the Pleiades are associated with agriculture and the harvest season. In other cultures, it is considered a significant time marker.
