Because the sun appears in front of Pisces the Fishes around the time of the March equinox, it is frequently referred to as the first constellation of the zodiac. The span of time between successive March equinoxes is sometimes referred to as a tropical year. As a result, the March equinox marks the start of a new year in this sense. That’s why Pisces, which stands in front of the sun on the March equinox, is frequently referred to as the zodiac’s beginning point.
EarthSky lunar calendars for 2020 are now available!
They make excellent presents. Place your order right now. We’re moving quickly!
In This Article...
When can I see the constellation Pisces?
The sun’s annual passage in front of the constellation Pisces occurs about March 12 to April 19 in our time. From roughly April 19 to May 14, the sun will pass in front of the constellation Aries.
Of fact, spotting Pisces in March and April is difficult because the constellation is obscured by the sun’s glare at that time of year. Instead, observing Pisces in the evening sky during a Northern Hemisphere fall (or Southern Hemisphere spring) say, November is a good idea.
Pisces reaches its apogee for the night at 10 p.m. local standard time in early November and around 8 p.m. local standard time in early December, as seen from all across the world.
To observe this pretty dim constellation swimming in what the early stargazers regarded to be a watery section of the lore-laden heavens, you’ll need a dark country sky. Pisces is located to the northeast of the Water Bearer constellation Aquarius and to the northwest of the Sea-monster constellation Cetus.
Fortunately, the signpost known as the Great Square of Pegasus, as seen on the sky chart below, can be used to quickly locate Pisces. To the south of the Square of Pegasus, look for the Circlet of Pisces, also known as the Western Fish’s Head. After you’ve caught the Western Fish, move on to the Eastern Fish, which is leaping upward to the east of the Pegasus Square. The entire constellation resembles the letter V, although an elegant and lovely V. Al Risha is the constellation’s Alpha star (but not the brightest). By the way, the Eastern Fish looks to be sinking downward when viewed from the northern tropics or the Southern Hemisphere.
Pisces’ lone Messier object
Within Pisces’ limits, there can only be one Messier object, which is a fuzzy object that looks like a comet but is actually a star cluster, nebula, or galaxy. Messier 74 is a face-on spiral galaxy believed to be 35 million light-years away. This Messier object in the constellation Pisces is frequently overlooked during the month of March, when it is technically feasible but difficult to see all of the Messier objects in one night.
Messier 74 is notoriously difficult to catch during the yearly Messier Marathons in March and/or April for two reasons. Messier 74 appears low in the western sky at sunset at that time of year, and then swiftly fades out of view. Furthermore, because this distant galaxy has a very low surface brightness, good seeing conditions are essential for capturing Messier 74. A huge telescope isn’t required as much as a dark, transparent sky.
However, if you wish to find this tiny galaxy known as Messier 74, the months around November are ideal. On a dark, clear moonless night, try it with averted eyesight.
Pisces in mythology and star lore
The Greek and Roman versions of Pisces’ sky legend appeared to have originated in Syria, where fish were revered as gods. It’s unclear if the ancient Syrians abstained from eating fish completely or only ate fish from the Chalos River (presently called the Queiq or Aleppo River).
Atagartis, the Syrian goddess of love and fertility, is frequently depicted as half lady, half fish.
She is supposed to be the mother of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess, and Venus, the Roman goddess.
According to Greek legend, Aphrodite (the Roman Venus) and her son Eros (the Roman Cupid) were going to be devoured by the fire-breathing monster Typhon, so they transformed into fish and plunged into the Euphrates River to make a great escape. To keep from getting separated in the raging waters, mother and son bound themselves together with a cord.
How long is the Age of Pisces?
We’ll continue to live in the Age of Pisces as long as the sun shines in front of this constellation on the March equinox, according to some definitions. Despite the fact that the sun hasn’t appeared in front of the constellation Aries on the equinox in over 2,000 years, the March equinox point is still known as the First Point in Aries.
The Age of Pisces began in 68 B.C., and the Age of Aquarius will begin in 2597, if the International Astronomical Union’s constellation limits are accepted.
However, there are many other points of view on this, some of which can be found in this post:
When does the Aquarius Age begin?
What makes the Pisces constellation unique?
Children’s Pisces Constellation The two celestial fish that make up the Pieces Constellation represent the goddesses Venus and Cupid (in Roman mythology) or Aphrodite and her son (in Greek mythology), who transformed themselves into fish to flee the monster Typhon.
What galaxy does Pisces belong to?
- In his 2nd century Almagest, the Greco-Roman astronomer Ptolemy included the constellation of Pisces as one of the first 48 constellations.
- Pisces is the 14th largest constellation in the sky, with an area of roughly 889 square degrees, and is one of the 88 modern constellations.
- The constellation Pisces is related with the fable of Aphrodite and her son Eros, who were either saved by two fishes or transformed into fishes to escape the demon Typhon.
- The spiral galaxy Messier 74 is the sole Messier object in the constellation of Pisces.
- The Piscids are the only prominent meteor shower connected with Pisces.
- Alpherg, a G-type evolved massive star, is the brightest star in Pisces. The apparent magnitude of this star is +3.611.
- Alpherg has a companion star, a young star of magnitude 7.51, circling it.
- Apart from its brightest star, Van Maanen’s star, Alrescha, Fumalsamakah, Delta Piscium, Epsilon Piscium, Revati, Torcular, Omega Piscium, and Gamma Piscium are some of the other interesting stars in Pisces.
- Apart from the aforementioned Messier item, the colliding galaxies NGC 520, the spiral galaxy NGC 488, the CL 0024+1654 galaxy cluster, the radio galaxy 3C 31, the Pisces Dwarf Galaxy, or the CGCG 436-030 spiral galaxy are among the many deep-sky objects visible in Pisces.
- November is the greatest month to see stars and deep-sky objects in Pisces.
Pisces is derived from a combination of the Babylonian constellations Sinutu4 the big swallow in current western Pisces and Anunitum the Lady of the Heaven in current northern Pisces.
The Greek myth of Aphrodite and her son Eros, who either shape-shifted into fishes to avoid the Titans’ monster Typhon, or were saved by two fishes, is typically connected with Pisces.
Venus and Cupid, the Roman equivalents of Aphrodite and Eros, are carried away from danger on the backs of two fishes in the Roman version of the narrative.
Why are there two fish in Pisces?
The water sign Pisces is the zodiac’s final constellation. Two fish swimming in opposite directions are used to depict Pisces’ continual divide of attention between fantasy and reality. As the last sign, Pisces has absorbed all of the lessons gained by the other signs, including the pleasures and sorrows, hopes and anxieties. As a result, these fish are the astrological wheel’s most intuitive, empathic, and caring creatures. Pisces can quickly become engulfed by emotions because to their high sensitivity, therefore they must remember to stay grounded in the material realm (appropriately, Pisces rules the feet).
What is the appearance of a Pisces?
Each astrological sign has physical characteristics that are remarkably precise. They usually have something to do with the animal or symbol that represents your zodiac sign. Your parents also have an impact on your physical appearance. When comparing the natal charts of a person’s parents, astrologers find that their sun sign or ascendant is usually always the same.
When determining physical characteristics of a sign, you must take into account more than just your Sun sign. The Rising Sign, also known as the Ascendant, determines how you show yourself to others, including your appearance. While Leo Cancer partnerships may not be a personality match made in heaven, their Ascendant physical characteristics may generate an unmistakable attraction.
Aries
You have the physical attributes of a noble Ram and you take pride in your appearance. With a broad brow, nose, chin, and mouth, you’ll most likely have a strong and rough appearance. You are normally of ordinary height and have a solid bone structure. Unless you’ve been terribly saddened, you stand up straight. You rarely feel defeated, but when you do, you hang your head in shame. Because Aries rules the head, you enjoy having your head massaged or your hair toyed with. Aries are frequently born with a noticeable mole on their face.
Taurus
A well-rounded face with seductive lips is one of the bull’s characteristics. Your hair is thick and healthy, and the shape of your neck will draw attention to itself in some way. Many Taurus have a rounder nose with a point at the end. It might be long and graceful or thick and powerful, providing you amazing upper-body strength. Taurus is a sign that enjoys dressing up and knows how to put together an outfit. You enjoy wearing high-end designer clothing and are known for your immaculate style. You’re also the most likely of the signs to be physically active, thus your body is likely to be muscular and appealing.
Gemini
Gemini is a tall, powerful sign with gleaming eyes and an expressive face. The Gemini has an innate feeling of vitality, even when they are at rest. You have a pale skin and a high forehead with a straight nose. Because you’re the sign of the twins, you switch up your attire frequently because you’re dominated by not one, but two personalities.
Cancer
Because the crab doesn’t like to be the center of attention, Cancer’s facial characteristics are typically modest but lovely. Your jawbone will be prominent in a pleasing fashion, and your eyes will be a pale blue or grey tone, framed by brows that arch down. Those born under the sign of Cancer have small legs and arms but strong hands. Cancer women have a bigger or more prominent bust than other women. Because many Cancer indications are nearsighted, you may need to wear glasses.
Leo
People born under the sign of Leo have cat-like features and are virtually always attractive. They will have amazing hair that is as big as a lion’s mane in some way. Even if you’re not tall, you’ll hold yourself in a majestic manner that gives you a commanding appearance. The Leo is the most self-assured of all the signs, and while their aura isn’t a physical feature, it’s difficult to overlook it as part of the whole beautiful package.
Virgo
The Virgo is a health nut, and you take care of yourself, as evidenced by your amazing physiques. Because the Virgo zodiac sign is associated with health, you are likely to appear healthy and robust. Most Virgos develop later than others, and you have a thin, oval face that is lovely and compassionate. Let’s face it, Virgo, you spend a lot of time in front of the mirror, but we all admire how well-dressed you are.
Libra
Those born under the sign of Libra are likely to have a terrific physique and stand taller than the ordinary person. Some Libras have a cupid’s bow in their upper lip or heart-shaped lips, which is an intriguing characteristic. You like to accessorize your outfits with jewelry. When it comes to vices, Libras are weak, and this may be seen in their appearance. If you stay away from chocolate and other sugary foods, you’ll be able to maintain your youthful physique.
Scorpio
The facial features of persons born under the sign of Scorpio are frequently powerful and angular. Your hair is often dark with a touch of red that shows up when you’re out in the sun. Your body is often slim and slender, with eyes that pierce those who gaze into them. A Scorpio’s nose is always prominent, and his brows are attractively arched. Your bodies are warm and capable of withstanding a great deal of stress without becoming unwell.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius is the warrior sign, hence persons born under this sign generally have warrior physiques. You’re quick and taller than most people. You have merry, gleaming eyes that are expressively delighted. The Sagittarius’ femur, or thigh bone, is unusually lengthy (possibly for bow and arrow shooting)?
Capricorn
Capricorns have a distinct sense of flair when it comes to dressing. You tan easily and frequently have olive-toned skin. Your body is curvaceous, and you have powerful face features including a strong jaw line and prominent cheek bones. Because of the long spells of melancholy that affect this sign, the Capricorn will often appear troubled.
Aquarius
Aquarian physical characteristics are the most difficult to discern because the sign has a lot of androgyny in its appearance. An Aquarian has a thin, boyish figure and a straightforward demeanor. The majority of Aquarians have a natural head droop, although they always have a friendly expression on their faces. Their profile is aristocratic, and they frequently have petite features such as ears and narrow lips.
Pisces
The Pisces sign is characterized by dimples on the face and pale blue eyes. Some Pisces walk on their fins, as if they were a fish. They move their weight from one foot to the next and take small steps. Pisces women tend to have larger breasts and a feminine figure with stocky legs and thighs. The eyes reveal how they’re feeling, and they’ll cry a lot, but it’ll be a pleasant type of crying as they demonstrate their sincerity and depth.
What is the personality of a Pisces?
Pisces people are recognized for their emotional sensitivity, graciousness, and awareness. Pisces people are known for being among the most sympathetic of the zodiac signs, and they will go to great lengths to ensure that those around them are happy. They’re also innovative and creative.
What is the name of the Pisces fish?
Pisces is the ruling constellation between February 19th and March 20th. We’ve already noted that Pisces, the zodiac sign that follows Aquarius, is a sign that is full of emotions, both good and terrible. We also mentioned that Pisces are wonderful companions to have. The origins of Pisces, like the other 11 zodiac signs, may be traced back to prehistoric times. Ptolemy gave this star sign the name Pisces, which means fish in Latin. He lived around 1900 years ago and was the best astronomer in the Greco-Roman world. The names of the zodiac signs were not chosen at random by Ptolemy; they all have a legendary origin. The myth surrounding Pisces will be discussed in this post.
A monster on a killing spree
Pisces’ story begins with Typhon, a Greek god. This god was the worst of the worst. The gods usually have imperfections, but they’re nice at heart. Typhon, however, is not one of them. This god is dangerous and deadly in every way. He was referred to as a colossus. His upper body was human-like, while his legs were snake-like. His head was also made up of a collection of snake heads that had grown into flaming hair and screamed ceaselessly. To top it off, this creature was equipped with wings! As a result, Typhon became a formidable foe to the gods.
Typhon was treated as an outsider by the gods, who were clearly not on good terms with him. Typhon had had enough of it and resolved to climb Mount Olympus one awful day. All of the Greek gods and goddesses lived on this mountain. Typhon is in a foul temper, and he has threatened all of the gods who live on that mountain. They’re all well aware of Typhon’s abilities, so each god makes a hasty retreat. To get away from him, most of the gods transform into animals in order to achieve speed and agility. The gods of love, Aphrodite and Eros, are the only ones who do not change shape. Typhon is closing in on the two lovers, who are in serious danger. Two fish emerge at the last time and let Aphrodite and Eros jump on their backs. The two are able to avoid being captured by the monster Typhon in this manner. The two fish were placed in the heavens by the Greek gods as a way of celebrating this great gesture, and they became the constellation Pisces.
Different variations of the Pisces story
According to tradition, Aphrodite and Eros transformed themselves into fish and escaped this way. It appears improbable that this is the case because other gods changed into animals but did not have constellations named after them.
Although the myth of Pisces as we know it now may have originated with Ptolemy, the legend of Pisces stretches back to pre-Greco-Roman antiquity. The fish were known as Ichthyes in Syrian mythology. They assisted in the rescue of Ashtarte, the Syrian counterpart of Aphrodite, by transporting her down the Euphrates River. Overall, the story is similar, and the fish deserved to shine forever among the stars in the night sky.