About Pegasus
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Pegasus in Greek Mythology
Pegasus is the mighty winged horse from Greek mythology. According to legend, Pegasus sprang forth from drops of blood spilled when Perseus cut off the head of Medusa the Gorgon. A horsemaster named Bellarophon was able to tame Pegasus with a golden bridle provided by the goddess Athena. Together, Bellarophon and Pegasus had many adventures including vanquishing the fire-breathing monster Chimera. Later, Pegasus was brought to Mount Helicon and with one kick of his hoof caused the spring of Hippocrene to flow. Hippocrene is said to be the source of inspiration to poets. Finally, Bellerophon tried to fly to heaven to join the gods, but Pegasus threw him off and the two were separated forever, with Pegasus living on forever as a constellation of stars.
Pegasus in Astronomy
Pegasus is a constellation in northern summer sky named after the mythological winged horse Pegasus. It is one of the 88 modern constellations, and was also one of the 48 constellations originally listed by Ptolemy. Pegasus' three brightest stars, together with the star Alpheratz form the large prominant summer asterism known as the Summer Square or Square of Pegasus. Notable deep space objects located in Pegasus include:
A star in this constellation, 51 Pegasi, is orbited by the first true extrasolar planet to have ever been discovered (planets orbiting a star other than the Sun).
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