A distinctive cross-shaped constellation best seen in the northern hemisphere during the summer and fall months around September is:

Key Points

• Cygnus is a distinctive cross-shaped constellation best seen in the northern hemisphere during the summer and fall months around September.
• It is also known as the Northern Cross due to its characteristic shape.
• Cygnus is one of the most recognizable constellations in the night sky and is located in the Milky Way.
• The constellation is associated with the myth of Zeus transforming into a swan.

Additional Information

• Cygnus contains several notable stars, including Deneb, one of the brightest stars in the night sky and part of the Summer Triangle asterism.
• The constellation also hosts several deep-sky objects, such as the North America Nebula and the Veil Nebula.
• Cygnus is bordered by the constellations Draco, Lyra, Vulpecula, Pegasus, Lacerta, and Cepheus.
• Observation of Cygnus is best in the northern hemisphere during the late evening hours of summer and early fall.