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Libra (the scales) is a constellation of the zodiac. It is a fairly inconspicuous constellation and has no star of first magnitude, lying between Virgo to the west and Scorpius to the east. As the names of the brighter stars testify, it was at one point part of Scorpius' claws.
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2 Mythology |
The brightest stars in Libra form a rectangle:
The constellation, which originally formed part of the scorpion's claws, is the youngest of the Zodiac and the only one not to represent a living being. In Greek mythology, the constellation depicts the scales held by Astraea (the Virgin), the goddess of justice.
In some cosmologies, Libra is associated with the classical element Air, and thus called an Air Sign (with Aquarius and Gemini). Its polar opposite is Aries.
Notable features
α and β Librae are the scales' balance beam, and γ and δ are the weighing pans.Mythology
Astrology
The astrological sign Libra (September 23 - October 22) is associated with the constellation.
Constellations of the zodiac : Aries -- Taurus -- Gemini -- Cancer -- Leo -- Virgo -- Libra -- Scorpius -- (Ophiuchus) -- Sagittarius -- Capricornus -- Aquarius -- Pisces
Libra is also a Roman coin and weight measure, see Historical weights and measures