The Serpent
Serpens
Brightest star: Unukalhai
Overview
Serpens is a unique constellation, the only one in the sky divided into two non-contiguous parts: Serpens Caput (the Serpent's Head) to the west of Ophiuchus, and Serpens Cauda (the Serpent's Tail) to the east. Together they cover about 637 square degrees. The brightest star, Unukalhai (Alpha Serpentis), shines at magnitude 2.6 in the head section. The name comes from Arabic meaning the serpent's neck. Serpens is one of Ptolemy's original 48 constellations, always depicted as the snake held by Ophiuchus the Serpent Bearer. Serpens Cauda contains the spectacular Eagle Nebula. The constellation is best observed during June through August.
Mythology
Serpens represents the snake held by Asclepius (Ophiuchus), the divine physician of Greek mythology. In ancient medicine, snakes were sacred symbols of healing and renewal because of their ability to shed their skin, appearing to be reborn. The staff of Asclepius with its single coiled serpent remains the symbol of medicine today. In the myth, a serpent showed Asclepius a healing herb by reviving a dead companion snake with it, teaching him the secret of resurrection. Beyond Greek tradition, serpents appear as symbols of wisdom, forbidden knowledge, and cosmic power in cultures worldwide, from the Egyptian uraeus to the Aztec feathered serpent Quetzalcoatl.
Astrological Significance
Serpens carries deep astrological symbolism related to wisdom, healing, transformation, and the kundalini energy of spiritual traditions. The serpent is one of the most universal and powerful symbols in human culture. Its division into two parts, separated by Ophiuchus, suggests the dual nature of serpent energy: it can heal or harm, enlighten or deceive. Those who connect with Serpens energy may be drawn to healing professions, transformative practices, or the exploration of hidden knowledge. The serpent's association with the Tree of Knowledge in Western tradition and with enlightenment in Eastern traditions reflects its role as a bridge between ordinary and transcendent awareness.
Observing Tips
Serpens is best observed during summer evenings. Serpens Caput is found west of Ophiuchus, with Unukalhai being the easiest star to locate. The head section contains M5, one of the finest globular clusters in the northern sky, visible in binoculars and stunning through a telescope. Serpens Cauda, east of Ophiuchus, contains the Eagle Nebula (M16), famous for the Pillars of Creation photographed by the Hubble Space Telescope. While the pillars themselves require large telescopes to see visually, the surrounding star cluster is visible in binoculars. The nebula's glow can be seen in small telescopes under dark skies.