Ophiuchus. Computer artwork of the constellation of Ophiuchus, the Serpent Bearer, with a red line showing its shape in the sky. The grey areas are the star clouds of the Milky Way. Ophiuchus is a large constellation which lies on the celestial equator and can be seen from most parts of the world. In Greek mythology the constellation was associated with Asclepus, a doctor who was so skilled that he was able to bring the dead back to life. Zeus killed him with a thunderbolt, but then placed his image in the sky. He is depicted holding a snake across his shoulders; its head & tail form the constellations of Serpens Caput (top right) & Serpens Cauda (centre left) respectively.