Sagittarius [Lat.,=the archer], constellation lying on the ecliptic (the sun's apparent path through the heavens) between Scorpius and Capricornus; it is one of the constellations of the zodiac. It is traditionally depicted as a centaur drawing his bow to release an arrow. The constellation contains a configuration of stars known as the Milk Dipper. It also contains the Lagoon, Horseshoe, and Trifid nebulae. The center of our galaxy, the Milky Way, lies in Sagittarius. The constellation reaches its highest point in the evening sky in August.

Sagittarius(Latin; “Archer”)

In astronomy, the constellation lying between Capricorn and Scorpio; in astrology, the ninth sign of the zodiac, governing approximately the period November 22–December 21. Its symbol is either a centaur shooting a bow and arrow or an arrow drawn across a bow. The association of this constellation with a mounted archer originated in Babylonia as early as the 11th century BC.

Learn more about Sagittarius with a free trial on Britannica.com.

Sagittarius may refer to:

• Sagittarius (astrology), an astrological sign
• Sagittarius (constellation), a constellation
• Sagittarius A, a complex radio source at the centre of the Milky Way
• Sagittarius Dwarf Elliptical Galaxy
• Sagittarius (band), a 60's California recording project featuring Gary Usher and Curt Boettcher
• Secretary Bird - Sagittarius serpentarius - a large bird of prey
• Sagittarius (comics), a member of a fictional evil organization called Zodiac
• Sagittarii, Roman mounted archers