A Tribute to Orion

Orion is one of the most known of the constellations. Its distinguished primarily by the belt which are 3 bright stars in a row. Around the belt are four more stars that signify the body of Orion. Another lightly visible string of 3 stars is the sword hanging from the belt. 7 of the stars are believed to have planets. Of course the easiest way to locate the constellation is to look for the belt. Orion resides along the celestial equator.

Funny, I never imagined it like this. 

This is truly one of my favorite photographs of all time from space! 

Stars:
Rigel- 6th brightest star in the night sky. Will soon go supernova or white dwarf.
BetelGeuse- right shoulder of the hunter and is close to becoming supernova
Bellatrix
Mintaka
Alnilam- aprox 1340 lightyears from earth making the belt around that distance
Alnitak
Saiph


Orion is recognized in many world cultures and there are many different beliefs involving it from a wide variety of cultures.