Libra
Balance (Librae)
Libra, the Scales or Balance, is the only zodiacal constellation representing an inanimate object rather than a living creature. It lies between Virgo and Scorpius along the ecliptic and represents the scales of justice. The constellation's main stars were once considered part of Scorpius, representing the scorpion's claws, and their Arabic names still reflect this origin.
📜 Mitología
Libra represents the scales of justice held by Astraea, the goddess of justice (often associated with neighboring Virgo). In Roman times, the constellation was formalized as representing balance, law, and civility. The scales were said to weigh the souls of the dead in the underworld. The autumnal equinox (when day and night are equal) passed through Libra in ancient times, which may have contributed to its association with balance.
💡 Datos curiosos
- ✦The constellation's main stars have Arabic names meaning 'Northern Claw' and 'Southern Claw,' reflecting their origin as Scorpius's claws
- ✦Zubeneschamali is one of the very few stars that appears distinctly green to some observers
- ✦Gliese 581, a nearby red dwarf with several known exoplanets including one in the habitable zone, is in Libra