Aries is a constellation known as the Ram. It is a constellation of the Northern Hemisphere. Aries is bordered by the constellations Cetus, Perseus, Pisces, Taurus, and Triangulum. Aries is best viewed in October and November. Aries was among the 48 constellations defined by the ancient Greek mathematician Ptolemy. Today, it is one of 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), the leading authority in the naming of heavenly objects. Aries is also one of the 12 signs of the zodiac used in astrology (see Aries [astrology]).
As commonly drawn, Aries is a simple constellation consisting of only four stars. They are arranged in a line that is hooked slightly on one end.
In Greek mythology, the ram Aries was sent to Earth by the god Zeus to save the daughter and son of King Athamus. The ram took the children on its back, flying to safety. The son lived, but the daughter was lost at sea along the way.
