2. ξ is rather high in the constellation and close to the back of Canis Major: Hevelius has a complicated Argo Navis construction with a head emerging on the other side of the Milky Way and looking in the opposite direction compared to the head of Canis Major. There seems to be a point of reversal between Aludra (η Canis Majoris, at the tip of the tail) and κ Puppis (slightly earlier and below Azmidiske). We should add κ Puppis (Markab - the same name as that used for α Pegasi) to our list:
Allen has the following remark as to Markab in the Pegasus Square: "Markab - Flamsteed's Marchab - is the Arabs' word for a Saddle, Ship, or Vehicle, - anything ridden upon, - that was early applied to this star ..." |