The Constellation of Cancer in the Sky Looking up at the night sky, stargazers can spot the constellation of Cancer, also known as the Crab. It is one of the twelve zodiacal constellations, and is located between the constellations of Gemini and Leo. Cancer is a relatively small constellation, but it contains a number of bright stars, including the star cluster Praesepe, also known as the Beehive. This cluster is visible with the naked eye, and looks like a fuzzy patch of light. It is one of the closest star clusters to Earth, at a distance of about 577 light years. Cancer is also home to a number of interesting deep-sky objects, such as the globular cluster M44, also known as the Praesepe Cluster. This cluster contains hundreds of stars, and is about 577 light years away. Another interesting object is the open cluster M67, which is about 2,700 light years away. In mythology, Cancer is associated with the story of Hercules and the Hydra. In the story, the Hydra was a multi-headed serpent that Hercules was tasked with defeating. The crab, sent by the goddess Hera, sided with the Hydra and attacked Hercules. However, Hercules crushed the crab, and Hera placed it in the sky as a constellation to honor its bravery. In astrology, people born between June 21 and July 22 are said to be born under the sign of Cancer. They are believed to be sensitive, empathetic, and nurturing individuals. Whether you believe in mythology, astronomy, or astrology, the constellation of Cancer is a fascinating object to observe in the night sky. With its bright stars and interesting deep-sky objects, it is a reminder of the vastness and wonder of the universe.