When we are left in the dark, as has often been the case of late, the night sky looks particularly spectacular. At this time of the year, in late summer, the constellation of Orion is right above us in the evening. It rises in the East and sets in the West. As a result, it was an important navigational aid in former times. It is named after a great hunter in Greek mytho-logy.

Three stars in a row depict his belt (Orion se Gordel). These stars are also known as The Three Kings or The Three Sisters. One of his shoulders (Betelguese - reddish) and one of his knees (Rigel – bluish) are two of the brightest stars in our galaxy. Soon Orion will disappear and we will start to see Scorpio. These two constellations are never seen together, since they are at opposite sides of the night sky.

The Southern Cross (Suiderkruis) and the Pointers are already quite prominent in the evenings – all signs that we are moving from summer into autumn. Because Pearly Beach does not have street lights, these wonderful sights can be admired on every clear night, even when there is no load shedding.

Pearly Beach Bewarea Conservancy

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