mao3 - one of the 28 constellations (the Pleiades)
xiu4 - a constellation; an asterism; [pced][¤Ñ] an ancient term for constellation
liu4 - six
This word has links to Greek mythology and astronomy.
In Greek mythology (see link at the right), Alcyone was one of the daughters of Atlas and Pleione. Alcyone and her six sisters are commemorated in the star cluster Pleiades (see astronomy link at right).
This word gives an example of star-naming conventions in Chinese - mao3xiu4 number 6.
December 30, 1998
Greek Mythology Link
Pleiades
Star Watch, UKThe Pleiades
Astronomy Picture of the Day
The Pleiades Star Cluster
COUNT THE PLEIADES
More about The Pleiades Star Cluster
MAIL