Cygnus
Brightest star: Deneb
Cygnus stretches as a cross along the Milky Way, earning its nickname the "Northern Cross". Deneb, the tail, is a white supergiant 200,000 times more luminous than the Sun — among the most luminous naked-eye stars.
When to see it
Visible summer–autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, crosses the Milky Way.
Mythology
To seduce Queen Leda of Sparta, Zeus transformed into a swan. From their union were born Helen (future Helen of Troy) and the twins Castor and Pollux. Zeus immortalized the form among the stars.
Gift idea
Deneb forms one corner of the Summer Triangle — a late-summer landmark, perfect for couples who met during holidays or in August/September.