Procyon

The name originates from Greek "pro kyon", "before the dog". Today, this term is used as a star name in the constellation Canis Minor but in antiquity, it designated the area - originally likely a (single star-)asterism.

Etymology and History

The bright star Procyon was possibly used in Mesopotamia as an indicator for the rising of Cancer. The stars in Cancer are so faint that you can barely see them at dusk - but the bright Procyon rises at the same time, which is suitable for telling the time.

IAU Working Group on Star Names

The name was approved by the IAU WGSN in 2016.

Reference

• References (general)
• References (early modern)
• Ian Ridpath's website (Star Tales )