Caelum
Graving tool (Caeli)
Caelum, the Chisel or Engraving Tool, is one of the smallest and faintest constellations in the sky. Created by Nicolas-Louis de Lacaille in the 18th century, it represents a sculptor's engraving tool. Located in a barren region of the southern sky between Columba and Eridanus, Caelum contains no stars brighter than fourth magnitude and few notable deep-sky objects.
📜 Mythology
Caelum is a modern constellation with no classical mythology. It was created by Nicolas-Louis de Lacaille during his southern sky survey from the Cape of Good Hope (1751-1752). Originally named 'Caela Sculptoris' (the Sculptor's Chisels), the name was later shortened to Caelum. Like many of Lacaille's constellations, it honors the tools and instruments of art and science during the Age of Enlightenment.
💡 Facts
- ✦Caelum is the eighth smallest constellation, covering only 125 square degrees
- ✦The constellation contains no Messier objects or named deep-sky objects of note
- ✦RR Caeli is an eclipsing binary system with a very short orbital period of about 7 hours