O is for Orion

I Love Sci-Fi/Fantasy Because...

...of Orion

Constellation Orion

I not only love science fiction and fantasy, but I love science as well--especially astronomy. And Orion is my favorite constellation. It contains the Orion nebula (M42), the stars Betelgeuse and Rigel and is one of the easiest to locate thanks to the hunter's (Orion's) belt and sword, often mistaken for the big or little dipper.

My love of fantasy began in my teens when I encountered Tolkien's work, but my love for science fiction began even earlier. The night sky has always left me in awe, whether viewing it through a telescope, binoculars or the naked eye.

As an adolescent, I would lie on the roof of our house and stare at the stars for hours on end. I'd imagine what it would be like to travel among them, praying that one day it would be possible.

But to keep true to my theme, I find myself obligated to mention the green Orion slave girls of Star Trek, of whom it's said no man can resist.

I fell in love with astronomy, in large part, due to Orion. So thanks to Orion, I fell in love with science fiction and fantasy too.

The Orion Nebula (M42)