Coma Berenices
Berenice's Hair
Instability - Northern Lights
I previously mentioned that Earth (the Solar System) is located in the Milky Way Galaxy. So, where is the Milky Way Galaxy located in the universe? This is the region known as the "Coma Cluster." Numerous galaxies of various shapes are grouped together, influenced by gravity. It is said that the Milky Way Galaxy is not part of this cluster but is located in the neighboring "Virgo Cluster."
Sisask's image for the constellation Coma Berenices is "Instability ~ Aurora." Coma Berenices contains the "Galactic North Pole." The direction of the Galactic North Pole, as seen from Earth, is a place where distant galaxies can be observed without obstruction from other celestial objects, and it is also called the "Window to the Universe." On the other hand, auroras, also known as polar lights, are said to occur near the poles (zenith) of celestial bodies.
Sisask likely associated the "Window to the Universe" with the source of the aurora, while also superimposing the image of the aurora's mysteriously shifting colors onto the numerous galaxies. In the first edition of the score, four celestial objects are noted in the region of Coma Berenices. Let's take a look at each one with images from NASA.
The image above of "Markarian's Chain" is part of the Virgo Cluster, and it includes the galaxy M88, which Sisask noted in his score. The stunning beauty of the chain of galaxies forming a smooth arc is simply enchanting.
Sisask's music for Coma Berenices features movements reminiscent of the rotation of swirling galaxies, with a tunefulness that conveys a sense of affection for each colorful and unique galaxy. Using a wide range of tones, from bright high notes to weighty low tones, it seems to express the vastness of the galaxy cluster. The underlying sense of unease might come from the shimmering aurora, or perhaps from the eerie name of the constellation, which means "Hair." To conclude, I would like to show you an intriguing image of "Coma Berenices and the Aurora."
This is a stamp from Canada. It depicts the aurora curtains descending around the area of Coma Berenices. There are many aurora enthusiasts who take photographs of the aurora and stars, and a quick search yields many images. Auroras can also be seen in Sisask's home country of Estonia. During the aurora season, he invites astronomer friends from places like Australia to watch the auroras, observe the stars, and discuss the universe.
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