In attempting to determine a framework upon which to organize our evolving understanding of the voluminous astronomical and astrological material found among DK's/Alice Bailey's works, it is useful to start with a set of macrocosmic hypotheses so that microcosmic details can be systematized, prior to inevitable reaggregation, as a clearer analytic outline emerges.   With this in mind, I would like to present some propositions derived from studies of astronomy and astrology over the years.

Text revised since 1988 is enclosed in brackets for convenience (11/98).   Minor typographical corrections and revisions are not bracketed.

All page citations hereafter will refer to CF, unless otherwise specified.
Also, zodiacal constellations will be designated as is;   [tropical] signs will be enclosed by parentheses, i.e., (sign).
  •   All simple page notations refer to Alice A. Bailey's A Treatise on Cosmic Fire unless otherwise indicated by a 2/3-letter abbreviation.
  •   All citations to Helena Petrovna Blavatsky's Secret Doctrine are to the Theosophical University Press centennial (facsimile) edition of 1988.

... Sirius, the Great Bear and the Pleiades work through the medium of the twelve constellations, pouring their influences through nine of them in particular, ...these major constellations are not [emphasis mine] part of the zodiac with which we are concerned.   They, with the seven solar systems [suns] of which ours is one, are the ten constellations connected with a still greater zodiac which is not conditioned by the numerical significance of the number twelve.   Hence ten is regarded as the number of perfection.   – EA.112

[Actually, this is just the region in which one of the first planetary systems orbiting a star/sun other than our own has just been discovered (_________).]

These latter 3 cycles have been found to affect planetary glaciation periods (Smithsonian 1/78). Herein also lie correspondences to the mysterious Alcyone cycle, the Pleiadean alignment with Virgo (SD2.454, 385), and that with the Two Pointers (SD2.580). There are probably many more which remain obscure at present.

Nevertheless, here is a partial list of the clusters with their distances and astrologic longitudinal positions. (See Table A at end.)

A Visualization Model

Cosmic Monadic Plane
To clarify our astronomical model, let us go on a Tibetan Tantric Buddhist yoga trek. With regard to the Science of Visualization, if it is not considered Action in and of itself on subtle and higher planes, it at least serves as a device for fcusing the mind on the worthy, as a mnemonic device for assimilating knowledge condensed into symbolic form, or for reinforcing psychological comeasurement, equilibrium, and paradigm-testing in one's everyday life. We must remember the monad aspect is a "Jewel" with 7 facets, which are 7 Doorways to the 7 Paths (1245). The monadic jewel [electric fire] incarnates through the 3 monadic Aspects — the higher triad of permanent atoms, the petals [3/4 tiers] of the causal body [solar fire], and thence to the lower triad [of personality permanent atoms immersed in fire-by-friction]. In an attempt to understand the higher prototype of our human constitution, we must remind ourselves of the greater Jewel at the heart of solar manifestation (1232). This can be clearly visualized in Tantric Buddhism where the spirit/soul in the form of a tutelary deity is visualized on top of one's head, sitting on solar and lunar disks surrounded by petals, with a halo behind in the form of a rainbow latticework of multicolored light. Of course our soul, this tutelary deity, has 7 chakras of its own, one of them being the 12-petalled heart center. The Spirit's 7 chakras might be characterized as the 7 head centers (7 facets of the monadic jewel) [governing] the soul while in incarnation (182, 628-31) [, in ceaseless meditation while incarnating.] It is the monadic aspect which ties us directly into the greater Life within which we live, move and have our being — one of the planetary Logoi (1092.ff).

Cosmic Buddhic Plane
Reminding ourselves that the 3 Suns or solar systems are but the Eternal Now for the solar Logos (350), then from this cosmic Buddhic Plane (4th solar etheric) perspective, and from all the buddhic subplanes, one may posit the solar Logos above the planetary Logos in the same manner [as in the section above]; the Sirian System (constellation) Logos above the solar, and so on:

— The LESSER ZODIAC represents the effect of 12 planets in the 12 Houses and 12 SIGNS (EA.30), viewed as planetary environmental substance conditioned by the solar physical personality;7 sacred planets being conditioned by the physical throat chakra aspect of our Triple Sun.
— The Second Aspect of the solar astral personality, the 12 planets or schemes (519-20) of the 2nd solar system, in its turn is the 12-petalled solar heart lotus (1018, 272-3, 1182) reflected from the supercosmic 6th plane onto the 5th subplane of the cosmic astral plane (514), where the Earth School is tested (1178).
— The 12 CONSTELLATIONS or ZODIAC within the Sirian (7-sun) System body or Entity represent the solar causal aspect on supercosmic mental planes — being the 12-petalled reflection [heart center in the head] of the One About Whom Nought May Be Said within the solar 1000-petalled lotus — from the Sun's 7 Sirian-System Rays (EP1.152), seen as 7 Tiers of petals (1161), and actuated through His 49 solar manus (1018, 1182-3, 631; WM.275).

Given the above sequence, then the 12-petalled lotus (rflected by our Sun's causal body) among the 7 solar head centers (RI.339), the Sirian 7-sun System, corresponds to the GREATER ZODIAC (EA.13-14) of OUTER CONSTELLATIONS (10 rounds of 250K years [EA.409]), or the solar monadic aspect (1059), one of the 7, 9, 10, or 12 (520) clusters. (See EA.112 quoted below.)
The Three Jewels of the solar Causal Body in turn form reflections of three chakras within the Supercosmic 7-cluster ENTITY (272), the ONE ABOUT WHOM NOUGHT MAY BE SAID, or three of the 7 Sirian-System head centers (RI.339).

Cosmic Mental Plane
In other terms, from the perspective of the cosmic Mental Plane (848):

1. The Sirian solar Logos (within the Sirian System, the One About Whom Nought May Be Said) is to our solar Logos (as a cluster-Ray or Chain-Globe) what the human Ego is to the personality (592). Both are solar Globes in a solar Chain. [This takes strenuous thinking out, with Ray 4 visualization skills.]
2. The solar Logos, in His Own causal or buddhic consciousness as a Grand Heavenly Man, is a center (Round) in the ONE ABOUT WHOM NOUGHT MAY BE SAID (182, 272), just as the 7 Heavenly Men are 7 centers in the body of the One About Whom Nought May Be Said, the Entity of Whom the Logos is a reflection (296).
3. But the solar Logos as an Intelligence [Nous](soul-infused personality aspect, or Dragon of Wisdom) is but a cell (during physical incarnation) in the (dense) physical BODY of the ONE ABOUT WHOM NOUGHT MAY BE SAID (182, 295). (See Table C [missing] on the Planes.)
These cosmic mental levels seem to be regulated by the 3 orders of Lipika Lords associated with Sirius [the Sirian Law of Karma], which order the buds, petals, and atoms of the solar casual body (1033).

Though as human Monads — either unconscious units making up the involutionary egoic groups, or as conscious members of the evolutionary planetary ashrams — merged with the whole through group consciousness, we do not lose our identity. The same is true of planetary, solar, and cosmic Logoi (571-2), and those beyond, throughout all their cycles. This suggests Buddhist teachings on the identity of Nirvana/Samsara, ultimate and relative truths, expressed as essential selflessness and 'existencelessness' for the purpose of cultivating detachment and clarity within meditative practice. But expressed as Identification and INFINITY [or Plenum] (rather than Western translations of Sunyata as "void") to enhance action, aspiration and attainment, as Morya affirms in the discipline of Agni Yoga and throughout his books. Morya refers to this peculiar human manasic distortion as the "Maya of Pralaya" (Heart 14; see also Bailey's GWP).
Given DK's definition of constellation, the zodiacal signs are purely solar, representing substance swept into the solar systemic (schemic) periphery [ring-pass-not] by the 12-petalled beating physical heart (11/22-year solar magnetic cycle) of the solar physical permanent atom. This, because our orthodox zodiacal "constellations" — really signs — are all random groupings of stars whose influences are drawn in by the solar heart center to form the physical heart chakra petals. They are not coherent systems moving togther, as are the open clusters and associations. However, the orthodox zodiacal signs and constellations may "stand for" greater outer constellations (see Lesser and Greater Zodiacs, above), which represent the 12-petalled lotus among the 7 solar head centers.

Cosmic Physical Plane
From the 7th or lowest subplane of Fohat, the 7 sacred planets are transmuted into the 7 planetary head centers or 7 solar Logoic atoms on the 1st subplane, which in turn become systemic planes and represent the spirillae of the solar physical permanent atom. The 7 Suns are transmuted into the 7 solar head centers, which are 7 Sirian-System Logoic Atoms on the 1st of the cosmic [HPB's Prakritic] planes, and which —during involution and evolution, or outbreathing and inbreathing— become the 7 atomic foci for 7 solar planes — the 7 spirillae of the Sirian System physical permanent atom. The next higher transmutation is represented by the number 10 (or 12 [520]).
So here it is important to reiterate that we are essentially dealing with reflections on the lower physical or Fohatic planes in regard to all the Entities examined in this article. This most likely represents the borderline between the 4th and 4th subplanes of the cosmic physical subplane (counting down), where the ethers on the 4th break forth into human sight through the gaseous 5th, exhibiting themselves through the etheric levels as results of � 1) atomic coherence in the manner of atomic fusion generation; 2) magnetism; 3) plasmas; and 4) electricities � only then continuing down to the major gaseous and fiery liquid envelopes of the respective clusters, stars, and planets (796). In other words, we are dealing strictly with the physical incarnation plane Systems of these Logoi � Their higher planes only as they are reflected down into the etheric and dense vehicles. Only "one-seventh" [3] are visible (1059).
For the psychological interpretation of the 4 [solar] ethers, see EP2.217, as well as the 7 Laws of Group Life as covered in that volume [, for Sirian Dense and Etheric.]

A Chakra Model of the Local Universe

While working with DK's material, speculation as to the centers if inevitable.
However, I would discourage assigning center correspondences to any of these higher-order Systems.
1st, we have no idea how they are organized in time/sace as systems. Models based on distance, spectral type, or incomplete motion and interrelation studies will all fall short of the mark.
2nd, intense focus on any of these speculations, not to speak of experimental applications, will very easily cause dangerous energy distortions and further burden one's colleagues and the planetary hierarchy at large.
3rd, there is the positive peril of overstimulation, and since this is already a very common problem among all grades of aspirants, disciples and initiates, it would be irresponsible if not criminal to increase the problem. DK and Morya have amply warned of potential disruptive effects in this particular area (1250). We should humbly keep this in mind.
This said, research will undoubtedly occur as material such as this is predicated and worked with. At this period in human history, working from detail to hypothesis, building a data base � based on [identification of cause versus effect, and then on] interpretation of effect from cause � will probably be the best and safest measure.

The idea for positing these clusters of hundreds of stars comes from an analogy to our human chakras system. While three are 7 major centers, thre are many other conbinations of different number, which DK presents for our consideration throughout his books. [Not to mention all the traditional material from Eastern traditions.] Two of the more intriguing are found at quotes presenting 7 major, 21 minor, 49 focal points (77 total) (TEV.151); and 144 chakra petals, representing the completed work of the 12 Creative Hierarchies (WM.199). One must remember our 7 sacred planets ae set among at least 25 minor planets 1000 KM or more in diametere, hundreds more "minor planets," moons, asteroids [, and comets]. The etheric planets are not even included in these figures. This approach accommodates both the mythological and esoteric representations of the major constellations as 7-fold to the actual number of stars in, say, the Ursa Major (c.150 [1949]) or Pleiades (c.250-500 [1978]) systems [, the number depending on inclusiveness of lower magnitude stars].
In positing the chakra model, I am assuming both 1-cluster and 7-cluster chakra systems are stable for a period of "incarnation," during which time the 7 suns or 7 clusters, as the case may be, are being vivified sequentially and idiosyncratially through solar and cluster round, globe, chain, and scheme cycles; much as in the case during the Heavenly Man's Entity (global egoic groups), and the human personality's (physical body) incarnation cycles. Of course, these greater chakras are stimulated by motion on the planes of Manas, are awakened, flash forth and scintillate dimensionally according to a higher correspondence ot the Law of Group Progress, and in relation with Their Logoi's respective "Associations" on Their respective planes.
In terms of the chakra model, some centers can be expected to have a temporary, transferring effect, something like the center between the solar plexus and heart, that between the shoulder blades, the temporary throat center, and the alta major center. This may tie in with the teaching on the various moons in the vicinity of our Sun.
The Hyades are a low-density, aged cluster (c.250 members [1978]) between our Sun and the Pleiades, which contains a relatively large number of recent white dwarfs, or collapsed suns. It may represent a cluster "moon," related to cosmic "lunar" Lords whose life is being transferred to the Pleiades (834-5), and whose abandoned physical vehicle is still having a malefic effect on our solar physical system (837). It is curious that 35 "planetary nebulae" (clouds of exploded material surrounding white dwarf collapsed stars at their centers) have just been catalogued within 2 degrees of M7, one of the 11 or so clusters in the Scorpio/Centaurus Train or "system" of clusters (Deep Space, Summer 1988). There is a similarly strong argument along purely spectral lines for stars associated with the Red Branch, which happens to include the Pointer nearer to Polaris –alpha– which is not strictly a member of the Ursa Major moving cluster.
The other constellation, mentioned by DK in the direction of Ursa Minor, may be a solar "moon" of systemic "lunar" Lords, or the beginnings of another cluster "lunar" process, in the form of a "planetary nebula, or collapsed sun. The Crab Nebula, the remains of the supernova of 1054 AD, is found in just that direction (23° Gemini 23 [1950]). In other words, there exists the possibility of solar and cluster "moons," which might function as transient transferring chakras, as well as represent defunct solar and cluster Entities, providing the clouds of heavier elements needed for star formation. The previous solar system might well be considered a solar "moon" in terms of its inherited forms from the most recent pralaya (845), especially in light of various teachings re the "moon chain." There is the intriguing question here of the nature of "time" in regard to the 7 solar systems and, indeed, with regard to our own Sun.

A Galactic Septenate
While we are on the subject of various macrocosmic septenary systems, there is some interesting material to be examined in relation to our galactic structure. If looked upon from outside the galaxy, there is a clear division of 7 when observing the 3 major clouds and 4 major dwarf galaxies which are nearest [to our own galaxy]. The two Magellanic Clouds [subgalaxies] include a third cloud, "Snickers" (ref. to our "Milky Way"), as a member. Discovered in 1975, it is even closer to the Galaxy than the two former [Magellanic] clouds. The presence of Draco and Ursa Minor dwarf galaxies in this larger system is quite suggestive, particularly if we are attempting to integrate galactic and supergalactic coordinate systems into our calculations astrologically — about which more later. There are around 15 more secondary dwarfs presently recognized, including one –Leo I– which occupies the same longitude as Regulus, and another –Leo II– longitudinally close to Delta Leonis in the Sirian System. There are probably many other minor dwarf systems, obscured by the dust of intragalactic space. [The latest report (Nature, 29 Oct. 1998) gives the number of 35, interestingly, including 3 new 'dwarf spheroidals' (of 16). There also appears to be a natural cutoff determined by luminosity. The "Local Group" is determined by the giant spiral galaxies of our own Milky Way, the Andromeda (M31) and Triangulum (M33) galaxies.] Here is a list [from the Local Group of galaxies], ordered in a tentative 'vertical' alignment. (See Chart 3.)

CHART 3. Our Galaxy and Its Companions

Leo I	29° Leo 01
Leo II	9° Virgo 47
Ursa Minor	7° Virgo 24
Draco	26° Scorpio 28
Snickers (centroid)	6° Cancer 38
Galactic Center	26° Sagittarius 08
Large Magellanic Cloud	11° Aquarius 31
Small Magellanic Cloud	18° Aquarius 51
Sculptor	27° Pisces 38
Fornax	21° Aries 41

It is interesting to speculate here that the recently discovered gaseous jet perpendicular to our galactic core (Boston Globe, 8/10/88: 6) may represent an analogy to the vertical sutratma connecting the human chakras in their various stages of development. This jet may extend to the cores of our local dwarf galaxies, connecting them in a series of galaxies, viewed as a larger order "system." [This "sutratma" linkage of solar systems (not galaxies) was graphically depicted in the recent film Stargate (19___). Just count the number of suns passed during their visit to the planet of pyramids...] Since astronomers have begun to suspect black holes at the center of many or even most galaxies, perhaps this could be looked upon as galactic "jewel" substance: key to the "missing mass" of the universe; or possibly key to an unknown but suspected "5th force" in the universe, having to do with gravitational effects within larger field coherencies]. A similar hypothesis of "white holes/wormholes" has already been proposed, linking what we perceive outwardly as "black hles," and intimating a "hidden universe" on another unsuspected dimension (Sakharov, Boston Globe, early 1988). Perhaps once the Solar Probe and Hubble Space Telescopes are finally utilized, scientists may discover similar substantial "sutratmas" connecting the "7" solar systems, and even the "7" cluster systems. Japanese astronomers have just again reaffirmed these gaseous jets projecting vertically from the central core of our galaxy (Boston Globe, 8/18/88: 6).

The Great Illusion
In all these models, the Great Illusion must be taken into consideration. What creates the immediate illusion, within man himself, of a vertical sequence of chakras in a particular order [in the human constitution], when in reality these same chakras may form another sort of [geometric] congery more related to a sphere or atom? This may provide a clue in trying to determine relative positions for clusters within the cluster system.
On the Association level, material ejected form the explosion of a nova, colliding with ambient cold cores or isolated H₂ clouds at a particular mass or stage of development, could conceivably argue for a spherical model of star cluster formation, a model which is actually encountered in clusters of galaxies.why doesn't this type of structure readily appear among the star clusters? Does their forward or spirallic motion as a coherent group obscure the fact of their spherical rotation and structure as a system? How can this be analyzed?
Judi Laws (1988 Seven Ray Institute conference) has suggested the Ourobouros model (see Chart 1) for these 7-cluster systems. Even though human chakras evolve through different stages, triangles, and intensities of radiation, they do not appear to change position relative to one another — from the human point of view. The difference in star magnitude, motion, radiance, color, etc., are seen [esotericaly] as effects of etheric energy, not [empirically] as causes in the lower form itself. We can well assume that human perception is severely limited in this regard, and that models must initially be derived inferentially. (See larger version of Chart 1.)

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III.   FOUR TRAINS OF 7-CLUSTER SYSTEMS

Four Trains of "7"-Cluster systems are found locally in the directions of Aries, Leo-Scorpio, Aquarius (EP2.122), and Taurus/Gemini constellations. They seem to represent various stages in the manifestation process of 7-cluster systems. The Orion Train, in particular, seems at an early birthing stage and to be in intimate relation to our own groupof 9 moving clusters. Three of these Trains may well serve as they key to the nature of the Identity mentioned (EA.194) specifically with regard to the four "signs" — Aries, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius (See Chart 4.) There is the question whether these might represent a Paracosmic "QUATERNARY." This will become clearer as the associations within these "Trains" are examined in Section IV below. (See larger version of Chart 4.)


ARIES / (PISCES):
The Perseus / (Cassiopeia) Train of Clusters (400-900 parsecs) and (150-400 parsecs)
The Cassiopeia/Perseus region is very rich in relatively nearby open clusters. These two "Trains" seem to be delimited by the closer I Persei and more distant II Persei Associations, respectively, though there is a close relationship which is hard to unravel. The Cassiopeia Train seems more closely related to the constellation Pisces, and seems to include members found in other constellations, such as Lacerta and Cepheus.
The more distant Perseus Train is located in the background of the great California Nebula and is associated sidereally with the constellation Aries. Two T-associations of newly born stars are found here as well. The famous Perseus double cluster might well delineate the start of a further and more distant Train.

LEO to SCORPIO:
The Scorpio Train of Clusters(200-400 parsecs)
The Scorpio/Centaurus region seems to include another system of Two Associations (II Scorpio and I Scorpio) with 7 clusters between them at around 200-400 parsecs distance. Perhaps this represents a 7-cluster system between Socrpio/Centaurus contemporary with our own and other similar Association/cluster systems along the Orion galactic arm. (See Table B for group member positions.) Two T-associations are found close by, and our Scorpio/Centaurus moving cluster [not Association] is found in the foreground, close to the Coal Sack dark nebulosity. The centroid of the Scorpio/Centaurus moving cluster (26° Scorpio 05) seems to focus the influences of this group, just as Regulus is said to focus three influences reaching us from Sirius or the Sirian System, more of which later.

AQUARIUS:
The M39 Train of Clusters in Cygnus/Lacerta (150-300 parsecs)
Several T-associations, along with a trail of open clusters at around the same distance seem to constitute a "self-sustaining" system that represents cluster-birthing at some particular developmental or evolutionary stage. A number of O-associations are found at twice the distance in the constellation Capricorn. The North American and Pelican nebulae are closely associated, along with several other bright and dark clouds.

TAURUS / (GEMINI):
The Orion / (Monoceros) Train of Clusters(200-400 parsecs) and (750-950 parsecs)
There seems to be a Train of clusters in Gemini, Monoceros, Canis Major (750-950 parsecs) associated with a grouping of bright nebulae further out in Monoceros and Orion (c.1000 parsecs). There is also a dark cloud associated with S Monoceros at 600 parsecs in front of this group.
Closer in, there is a group of bright nebulae and T-associations at about 200-400 parsecs, in the constellation of Taurus. While the Gemini group has fully-formed clusters, the latter Taurus group, directly related to the Great Orion Nebula, seems to represent a cluster-birthing area, not just a star-birthing nebula. This group also has a dark nebula at around 300 parsecs in the foreground. Again, the Orion moving cluster [not Association] seems to provide a focus for the energies that make their way from this active region.

The Orion - Scorpio/Centaurus Axis
Both Orion and Scorpio/Centaurus Associations have a famous red-giant star associated with them — Betelgeuse (EP2.721; EA.31) and Antares (9° Sagittarius 03). These two are implicated in the 7-11° (Gemini)/(Sagittarius) "nuclear axis" (Mark Lerner, Welcome to Planet Earth 7/12: 3). These two red-giant stars might stand for, or veil, two Association centers in an even greater SEPTENATE, the Mother and Father aspects of our 7-cluster system and two centers of a Paracosmic Septenary System with seven 7-cluster systems lying between each of 7 Associations (or H₂ regions). Just in this way, "Sirius" often stands for the Sirius System, a solar septenary system, as far as we in our solar system are concerned; the prototype for our great Hierarchy being found in the Lodge on Sirius, one of its 7 stars.

An Orion Proto-Cluster?
Interestingly enough, astronomers have just found 5 TLCs (Tiny Little Clouds) of H₂ surrounding Betelgeuse (Sky & Telescope, 9/88: 231). There are also 13 clumps of atomic hydrogen within the compass of the 5. These 5 seem to be a subset of the Orion nebular region. The 5 clouds are large enough to collapse into small stars, or smaller "Jupiters." They may be close enough to be feeding on Betelgeuse's continuous red giant mass loss. When Betelgeuse becomes a supernova, what will then be the interaction? Perhaps more H₂ "clumping" will have occurred by then. Will it accelerate star formation in these clouds, or wipe them out? Betelgeuse-like stars are found in the Jewel Box cluster, and other clusters of the Scorpio/Centaurus Train; while others can be seen near the clusters of the Perseus Train, usually associated there with nebular regions. They will all inevitably explode to distribute the heavier elements required in star formation from "cold cores" of H₂ (Astronomy, 9/88: 22).

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IV.   SUPERCOSMIC (7-Cluster [Constellation]) SYSTEM

Before starting the next few sections, it might be useful to iterate several types of motion that must be dealt with in examining these systems of stars. First there is proper motion, or the motion that describes circles around the pole star, either form the point of view of a day's rotation of the Earth, or from the precession rotation viewed from the ecliptic plane. Radial motion is that which appears to approach or recede straight-on or obliquely, or to remain stationary at certain points in interrelated orbital and spirallic cycling. There exists the convergence motion of cluster stars toward an apparent convergence point. Star (and galaxy) streaming motion used to be explained by expansion of the universe, but since the soap-bubble and clumping models of large-scale ordering arrived on the scene, there seems to be less "convergence" of opinion on this matter. (An interesting example of motion on the plane of manas!) There still remain the many layers of unexamined "systems" motions, and this on many orders of magnitude. Now we will take a look at 4 major Associations of stars in our immediate astronomical locale.

TAURUS: The Orion Association (360 parsecs)
The Orion Association (1086), with its nearby star-birthing nebula source close to Sirius' creative magnetic "tug" (see below), might be said to indicate the etheric energies coming in through Draco from the north with the Big Dipper and the ecliptic direction of northern star streaming (blue shift Orion/Lepus Stream I, 60% of all galactic stars); while the much closer Scorpio/Centaurus Association might emblematize the Via Combusta or southern star streaming (red-shift Scutum/Pavo Stream II, 40% of all galactic stars), figuratively associated with gravitation toward the past or matter aspect of the 7-cluster system as a whole.
The Orion Association with its nebula of young stars set in a cloud of ionized hydrogen (H II), is the "son" of a giant cloud (approximately 90 parsecs across) of molecular hydrogen (H₂). Seventeen of these somewhat spherical clouds are to be seen in a chain along the Sagittarius Arm of our galaxy, spaced about 900 parsecs apart (See Chart 4). It [may be unprovable], but perhaps this relates to the mystery of the "16 which become the 17," associated with the planetary and solar 49s (879), and Sirian petal substance. The separation distance of 900 parsecs fits our model very well. This even spacing is clearly seen in the ionized hydrogen (Orion type) regions found on the arms of galaxies external to our own. The Carina Arm of our galaxy has a similar chain of clouds, but this regular feature is not found among the inner arms of our Milky Way (Sky& Telescope, 11/86: 466).

TAURUS: The II Persei Association (300-400 parsecs)
The California Nebula (5° Gemini 18) at close to 600 parsecs and providing a backdrop for the very young II Persei Association of O and B stars, lies in the direction of galactic motion toward the Andromeda galaxy, the partner of our basically-twin galactic system [with Triangulum the 3rd largest galaxy in a triplet]. The stars of II Persei are separating rapidly in different directions, their radial velocities indicating rapid recession from our Sun. Orion and Scorpio/Centaurus Associations are found on both the axes of star-streaming, as well as those of the local Gould Belt. Our nearby moving cluster III Persei, or Perseus A, seems to focus influences arriving from these outer systems.
II Persei is a group of young stars surrounded by a ring of clouds, whereas Orion has a circular set of clouds with a famous nebula at the center. It is associated with the Orion moving cluster as well, and probably represents a stage where main-sequence star-birthing is taking place alongside a recently formed cluster of large bright short-lifetime stars. II Persei is an O-association that contains very young pulsating variable stars, which still seem to be recovering from their birth trauma. Similar pulsating variable clusters are increasingly being revealed within dark galactic dust clouds, particularly since the development of the infrared array detector using recently released Department of Defense microchips as infrared light sensors. This technology has also allowed observation of the role of quasars and pulsars in galactic formation (Boston Globe, early 1988).

SCORPIO: The Scorpio/Centaurus Association (170 parsecs)
The II Scorpio Association (5° Sagittarius 46) of bright O and B stars at 170 parsecs is our local Scorpio/Centaurus moving cluster/Association of stars, which presently takes the form of an enlarging ellipse from our sidereal vantage point, and whose spreading relative motions will soon (astronomically speaking) spin them out of each others' orbits.
There seems to be a clear trail of clusters between it and the I Scorpio Association (16° Sagittarius 23) at 400 parsecs distance, which could represent another 7-cluster system contemporary to our own, or might be in the process of offering another cluster to take the place of the deteriorating Scorpio/Centaurus moving cluster and Association.

AQUARIUS: M39 Association (21° Pisces 58)
The local cluster M39 in Cygnus, at about 250 parsecs distance, lies among a grouping of clusters around the nearby North American and Pelican nebulae. Many other open clusters appear in this area, but details concerning distance and position have not been readily accessible to the author.

OUR LOCAL 7-CLUSTER SYSTEM

A "chain" of clusters between Orion and Scorpio/Centaurus, in vertical alignment (considering cluster convergence points) may be posited with respect to our Sun, evinced by the two closest clusters — Ursa Major and the Sirius System (Sirius moving cluster) — exhibiting radial velocities of approach with regard to our Sun's position within the Sirian System, while the rest seem to be receding or of mixed radial velocities, Coma being close to stationary, and more remote from coordinate planes. (The seven solar systems are "Sirius" in DK's books from the causal point of view [572]).

In other words, seven (9) clusters are included in space between the two major Associations of Scorpio/Centaurus and Orion, the former an older association spiralling out into a larger and larger ring, and the latter very young with tightly packed short-lifespan blue giants and a cluster-birthing nebula.   Two of these 7/9 moving clusters — Orion and Scorpio/Centaurus — are intimately associated with the Associations of the same names.   This entire system of clusters covers an area of approximately 500 parsecs.

The II Persei Association, aligned extra-galactically with our twin galaxy Andromeda, and the Train of 7-cluster systems in the same general direction, seems to tie this dual Association system to movement along the Orion Arm [of our galaxy].

Whenever any of the clusters (constellations) are mentioned (or indeed solar systems [star-suns]), it is important to determine whether DK is speaking of a Paracosmic LOGOS (ONE ABOUT WHOM...), a Supercosmic Logos (One About Whom...), a Cosmic Logos, or a Solar Logos.   The Sun is often spoken of by DK as a cosmic Entity.   The planetary Logos, on the other hand, is spoken of as a cosmic Logos.   All of these have their attendant physical subplane systems and 7-cluster, 1-cluster, solar, and planetary correspondence "names."

Astronomically speaking, these local clusters lie closer to the local system (Gould Belt) equator than to the galactic equator, though the two are in close proximity/(separation).


The two outlying clusters (Coma and Praesepe) have the convergence points of their peculiar motion through space close to this (galactic/Gould Belt) plane, along with the convergence points of all the other clusters, indicating cluster motion related to the plane of the galaxy (99), as well as nearly aligned with the galactic center and Sirius in the opposite direction.   While these two latter are remote from the galactic plane, relatively and topographically speaking, they are found very close to the even more local ecliptic plane.   Coma is situated, as well, directly upon the supergalactic plane (See Chart 2.), and may represent a tie-in to the supergalacic plane from the galactic cluster plane and the Sirian System (Gould Belt)/ecliptic.   Coma is also the one local cluster whose average radial velocity is close to zero.   Another of its peculiar features is the lack of fainter stars or red dwarfs, the commonest of stars.   Coma lies right next to the North Galactic Pole (tropical 29° Virgo 19, the Leo/Virgo constellational cusp) on the supergalactic equator, with the Supergalactic Center close by as well.   The supergalactic equatorcuts the ecliptic right in the middle of the constellation Virgo, very close to this Supergalactic Center, its anticenter being close to where the supergalactic equator (at this epoch) crosses the ecliptic in Pisces.   This may serve to indicate why DK mentions we are ending a Greater 250K year Round of Pisces as well as the lesser 2200-year Piscean Age associated with the Precession Cycle — these two cycles taking 5000-year and 500-year transition periods respectively (EA.37, 409-10).
(See larger version of Chart 2.)


This 250K cycle covers ten 25K cycles and suggests a connection with the Greater Zodiac. We cannot be sure whether this 250K Round cycle is leaving Pisces for Aquarius as well, or represents another reversed wheel entering Aries instead — a correspondence to the Cardinal Cross and implicated in the 4th initiation in this chain (384) of our planetary Logos within the manvantara, and the 4th cosmic initiation of our solar Logos in the mahamanvantara (570). In the case of another reversed wheel, the most recent Gemini cycle (EA.352) would have started around 2.5M years ago (1M years ago if a forward wheel).

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V.   7-CLUSTER SYSTEM RELATION TO SIRIAN SYSTEM


To present an argument for a coherent cluster system with laws of mass, motion, and momentum derived fromits own integrated and stratified systems nature, here is an interesting picture.

The closest moving and open clusters form a half-circle around the star Sirius with the convergence points of their motion — in crescent or semi-spiral order — visually from Coma, to Scorpio/Centaurus, the Pleiades, Orion, and thence to the Hyades and Praesepe (which two happen to converge very close to Betelgeuse). These 6 clusters are all receding in motion, from our Sun's perspective. When graphed out, these convergence lines resemble the components of a twisted rope. There is the possibility that this "twisted rope" convergence motion delineates 7-cluster rotation as a sphere which is hurtling through space, or rotation "around" another [moving] System, ahead of them in 7-cluster systemic "chain" alignment, together with others along our Orion spiral Arm. They are clearly moving together as a higher order system.
The Perseus A moving cluster on the plane of our Milky Way galaxy has a convergence point very close to the star Sirius itself. The II Persei (5° Gemini 18) Association and a long trail of remoter clusters of the Milky Way lies in its direction, the same direction in which our galaxy, in concert with the great Andromeda galaxy, is moving toward edge-on (7° Gemini 35). This may indicate series and trains of cluster systems on the major plane of the galaxy, the septenary and cluster systems representing a major astronomical insight into how the galaxy structures itself. It is interesting that the cluster Perseus A seems closely tied to the O-Association II Persei (5° Gemini 18) at 300-400 parsec, and its attendant California Nebula at 600 parsecs. (See Table B for Scorpio/Centaurus and Perseus Cluster Train members.)

The Ursa Major and Sirius moving clusters both converge at a point in Microscopium, next to the constellation Capricorn (28 Capricorn 36), and both [located] in the opposite direction from the convergence points around Sirius. Remember, these are the two systems [of the 9] which are approaching in terms of radial velocity, the rest receding, mixed, or stationary. [This suggests that our Sun within the Sirian System is moving 'north' in the direction of Ursa Major.] Our Sun is located in the Sirian System, somewhat between these two groups (2+7) of clusters, all being stretched out by the centrifugal force of galactic rotation, and preserved form the disintegrating effect of such rotation by perpendicular axial alignment.

Antares is also to be found in the Sirius/Ursa Major convergence direction, close to their convergence point as well as to the Sun's Apex in the sign (Capricorn). Betelgeuse, opposite in Orion, is found to be exceptionally close to the convergence points of two of our local clusters, the Hyades and Prasepe. It is interesting to find these two red giants on opposite sides of our sky, implicated in the directional axes of our local 7-cluster system. Is it coincidental that these two are also associated with the axes of the phenomenon of star streaming, Betelgeuse close to the ecliptic direction of Star Stream I, while Antares finds itself in the direction of the Southern Stream — Stream II — the Via Combusta? (See Michael Erlewine's fine description of all these systems in Astrophysical Directions, Vol. 2.) Perhaps their axial positions suggest the use of these two stars as a blind by DK to represent the clusters and associations of which they are a part.

If we visualize all these clusters (as a greater "scheme) forming a "chain" through space in terms of their distance from the Sun, we get the order presented in our first Table (A) of clusters. Looking from a point outside this larger system, we see a movement of the entire chain away from the constellation Capricorn toward a direction out of the galaxy, along one of its arms (the Orion Arm), in a direction represented by Sirius, from our point of view. If this is viewed as the 'long body' of the Supercosmic Logos, the convergence points and motion serve to describe rotary-spiral motion of the Seven-Cluster System as a whole — toward the direction which Sirius represents [or blinds].

[See Greek Kylix/Crater of youth Orion pursuing the Hare, representing this spiral-cyclic astronomical motion of the Seven-Cluster System toward Orion/Lepus (the 'hare').   This may be one of the occult reasons Lepus is called "the eternally pursued" by Aratus.]

Through analogy, we know that the closer Ursa Major stars of one of our "7" cosmic Logoi change their relative positions over vast periods of time, but we cannot entirely separate their distinct motion from our own within the Sirian System, or yet determine the structure of the Great Bear's long body as a system — an example of astronomical hyperopia. This is a major challenge for true computer astronomy enthusiasts. Perhaps the 7-cluster and cluster systems even have precession cycles of their own, over aeons, which result from and describe their spiral-cyclic motion. [Will this eventually explain HPB's citation of the comments of Hindu astronomers concerning the mystery of (Virgo and the Pointers) in extreme long-period cycles?]

Examining radio maps of the sky makes the local cluster system structure relationships to Sirius even clearer (see Chart 5.). The galaxy itself is the major source of radio emissions, with the exception of 'radio stars' including Cygnus, Cassiopeia, and Orion. Sirius is found in a gap between radio arms of our galaxy, in a 'window' to the outer universe.
(See larger version of Chart 5.)
This pulling away from the galactic center in the direction of Sirius, due to, or in coherent response to centrifugal rotation of the galaxy (twin galactic rotation?) as well as to local cluster dynamics (which have yet to be proven, posited, or considered seriously by astronomers), might account for one of DK's comments on Sirius (RI.417):

This mysteriously "exerted influence," this "pulling away from form... emanates from Sirius and for it we have no name; it is the law of which the three cosmic laws — the Laws of Synthesis, of Attraction, and of Economy — are only aspects.

This is the Sirian Law of Karma (569-71).

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VI.   SIRIAN SYSTEM (1 Cluster = 7 Solar System) SYSTEM

At CF>1084 it is mentioned that our Sun belongs to a group of seven solar systems, five of which are of greater magnitude than ours, only one being close to our size. The double system of Alpha Centaurus is very close to our sun and is eligible by spectral type (dG4 + K5) [and by magnitude]. Here Procyon could be posited, since its spectral type (F5 IV-V) is very close to that of our sun (G2-V), and it seems to share the same motion. It also has a helioseismic pulse similar to our own (Sky & Telescope, 11/87). Arcturus is part of another population of stars, and Capella seems to be an outlying member of the Hyades cluster, according to some astronomers. I would suggest Vega, Regulus, Fomalhaut, Denebola, Castor, Pollux, and Altair as other possible members. (See Table A.)

There is still the astronomical question of whether or not, in the context of solar evolution and comparable solar lifespan, the 7 major stars of our local "Sirian" cluster should be sought for along spectral classification lines among main-sequence stars, rather than through motion studies possibly distorted by relative proximity, and involving stars of different spectral classes (and ages). This brings up the question of permanent-atom relative lifespan, as well as chakra-relative lifespan, each within their systems. This in turn relates to 'survival' of sheathes, both in an etheric and in a higher sense. What does "time" constitute in this context?

Given the local Sirian moving cluster, let us turn to DK.   To illustrate his use of the term "system," to which we seem to belong, as a blind (353):

The cosmic Logos of our system works similarly through three major systems (of which ours is not one), utilizing seven solar systems (of which ours is one), for the distribution of His force and having myriads of sevenfold groups as the cells of His body.

In other words, the cosmic Logos of our system (solar Logos' monadic place within the 7-Sun Sirian System cosmic Logos) — works through 3 major systems (three jewels of the solar causal represented or named by 3 clusters or the Three Major Constellations [EA.416]) — utilizing 7 solar systems (7 schemes [359], or the 7 solar tiers and their 7 sacred-planet petal substance [511]) — utilizing 7 chakra correspondences for force distribution. Here he is speaking of our own Sun as heart center in the cosmic Logos (511), with His 3 sets of solar names (cluster, solar, and planetary) for His 3 Periodic Vehicles. We are aware of this only through examining the solar threefold single principle in manifestation (350, 63-4).

Sirius rules Leo in the cosmic sense (EA.299). The three influences of Sirius are focused in Regulus (Alpha Leonis, or the Heart of the Lion [EA.300]). This seems to indicate "Sirius" in its 7-Sun system manasic aspect, or the star Sirius' monadic/buddhis aspect. The cosmic Logos (Sirian System) functioning on the mental plane is called a Lion of Cosmic Will, our solar Logos being named a Dragon of Wisdom (306). Sirius' cosmic lines of Force (as a sun channeling the 7-Sun system) are explicated as pouring through Leo — the evolution of consciousness, and Aquarius (EA.194, 200-3) — the evolving group consciousness of the future, to the Heart of the Sun (EA.308). The Sirian System stars are to be found between Taurus and Scorpio and help describe an axial system or Cross. (See Chart 4. and Section VII below.) There is the further (Triple Sun) triangle of Sirius, Leo, and Jupiter.
(See larger version of Chart 4.)

Sirius is related to the solar soul aspect (592, 571, 718, 723; EA.416,#2).
This has somewhat to do with the 5 Mind-Born Sons of Brahma and their relation to 5 manifesting Kumaras and the Buddhas of Activity and Love. From the human point of view, the 9-fold energy impact of the solar Logos' soul, His Triple Jewel reflected in only the 3 lower of His 7 Tiers of petals (because of human causal purpose as well as perceptual limitation [only 3 human tiers]), results in 9 vibrations and 9 human causal petals. This is associated with the Manasadevas or Lords of the Flame working through 9 groups of solar pitris during the formation of the "lotus bud" egos, or Solar Angels of the egoic groups during human individualization and planetary incarnation (707-12). This is further explained in its solar, planetary and human implications (EA.47). Ashrams are the evolutionary [counterparts] of [originally] "involutionary" egoic groups, becoming self-conscious as groups, or group-conscious of their position to serve.

These three Forces are depicted from another point of view in terms of 5th (3rd)-Order Sirian vibrations impinging upon our 4th Order Sun's three major centers, in terms of the focus of His (our Solar Logos') personality awareness (554), helping to explain Sirius' effect on our Sun within the cohesive whole of the Sirian System. This relates to the Sirian Law of Karma in relation to our 4th Order systemic status (569-71), which explicates both Suns' relations to the Paracosmic physical ENTITY, or the 7 supercosmic planes representing subplanes of the Paracosmic physical plane.

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VII.   SIRIAN SYSTEM RELATION TO OUR SOLAR SYSTEM

The more familiar stars of the Sirius moving cluster itself are found on one side of the sky, from the sign (Gemini) to that of (Sagittarius), or the Taurus/Scorpio constellation axis. [NB: (Signs) appear in parentheses; Constellations without parens.] This may help to explain the peculiar present emphasis on these two (4) signs and constellations nad the energy emanating from them (EA.374-5, 348-9). Star streaming among the galactic stars is set ont he Gemini/Sagittarius constellational axis and the (Cancer)/(Capricorn) sign axis (EA.351).

Through precession, the 2 stars defining the Sirian System axis [will be] moving into Gemini and Sagittarius (c.2007 and 2548 AD, respectively). This will be a significant alignment in the coming 2200-year cycle of the Aquarian Age, and should make available a strong influx of magnetic energy from higher-order systems, galactically speaking. This also represents a shift of emphasis from Taurus to Gemini, Gemini channeling energies from Sirius though the heart of the Sun (EA.349).

The Apex of the Sun's Way is found in the sign Capricorn (1° Capricorn 27), the star Sirius in the sign Cancer (13° Cancer 23). The convergence point of the Ursa Major and Sirian System moving clusters' motion is also found in Capricorn (28° Capricorn 36), along with the GC/LMC/SMC triplet (20° Capricorn 31). This relation of the Sirian System to our Sun represents the axial tie-in with the 7 solar systems and the Cardinal (sign) Cross (EA.556). The present emphasis on Cancer)/(Capricorn) also suggests the incarnation of the planetary Logos through the individualization process of the egoic groups (EA.325; WM.289). What does this vertical alignment say about the nature of our Sun's life and purpose?

When considering the constitution of our solar Logos, it must be remembered that He is a sevenfold Being (EA.505). God, Monad and Atom are the correspondences of Spirit, Mind, and Body (SD1.679; CF.918). Physically, or upon the cosmic physical plane, the solar Logos has 7 atoms on His 7 physical subplanes — our solar planes (IHS.168). This represents His sevenfold permanent atom on the atomic subplanes, the planes exhibiting themselves as spirillae of deva substance (693).

The Sirian System of 7 Suns regulates the 7-fold solar division of the Logoic heart on cosmic levels (1157), just as on solar levels the 7 spirillae-suns of the planes (1182) blaze forth as solar pralaya (1042, 741). His three major centers are directly tied to and named (EA.11, 29, 416, 504d, 504b, 469) by the Great Bear, the Sun Sirius, and the Pleiades (in relation to our Sun — within the Sirius System [1182]). The names of these 3 clusters represent 3 of 7 cluster-chemes found on the cosmic monadic plane, and which stand for suns on the cosmic buddhic plane, just as the Seven Rishis represent planetary Logoic Prototypes on the 2nd plane (EA.589), but prototypes for the 7 Heavenly Men on the 4th (181). Put another way, the Seven Rishis provide Prototypes for the planetary Logos (657, 1056), but provide monads for the 7 Heavenly Men (273; SD2.332n). One must question which clusters correspond to or name His other four centers. DK hints that this is tied up with the question of 4 Aspects beynd the 3 we are familiar with (EA.505). But are these the 3 of the etheric triangle, the threefold personality, the triple jewel of the solar causal body (the synthesizing schemes with regard to the rotation of 3 solar permanent atoms [1161, 406, 63]), the Logoic Spiritual Triad (spiral-cyclically [1059]), or the 3 monadic Aspects expressing the solar forward aspect of motion? Perhaps a good place to start is with the solar Personality (568, 1030) expressed through 3 Cosmic Laws (Cosmic Three-World planes), plus the 4 adjunct Laws to the Second Great Law of Attraction. These are adjunct Laws in a higher sense, being reflections on the cosmic astral lower subplanes, because of the solar Logos' astral focus (512), and considering this the 2nd, Ray II system. The 7 Laws of Group Work (1216) probably represent the work of the Lipikas on the subplanes of the 4th cosmic astral subplane. Graduates of the Earth School are tested on the 3rd (5th) cosmic astral subplane (291). What does it mean to graduate from a planet? More anent the Seven Paths later.

Just as the Seven Rishis are monads to the 7 Heavenly Men (273), the 7 Pleiades bringing manas to the schemes or 7 Heavenly Men (375), which in turn represent systemic permanent atoms (1055-7); so the 3 groups of Lipika Lords correspond to the threefold Solar Ego in terms of buds, petals, and atoms (1033) in relation to the solar personality on our present 2nd solar-systemic planes. This may explain why the Sirian Logos is said to be the alter ego of the solar Logos (592). These are all nourished by the 49 types of energy pouring through the cosmic egoic lotus (WM.275).

It is easy to extrapolate from planetary schemes and chains named for planets), yet difficult to visualize our solar Logos evolving through solar schemes and chains named for clusters and cluster members (suns), which are in turn related to His systemic Laws (569). Our Sun is the heart center in the body (Sirius System) of the Supercosmic Entity on the Cosmic planes (511), responding as a soul to the 3 Cosmic Laws of Synthesis, Attraction, and Economy (570), which may represent the impact of a threefold Sirian System personality. Our Sun responds to energies from the Cosmic septenary sytem(s) through 7 Systemic Laws (552-4, 592) in much the same way as our Sirian Cosmic Logos (sun Sirius, or Sirius system) responds to a greater Logos (571-2), the One About Whom Nought May Be Said (Sirian System), Who governs, relationally influences, and karmically conditions our solar Logos through the Sirian Law of Karma (569-70). His work with the transference of life through solar pralaya is hinted at (445) and compared with the transference of life between globes by one of the solar systems (7th Ray Lord [446; EP1.151-3]).

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APPENDIX A Our 7/9 Moving Cluster-Systems
[Parsecs = 3.26 light years; Rad.Vel. = Radial Velocity (Approaching or Receding); * = most frequently quoted values]

Moving Clusters	Parsecs*	Rad. Vel.*	Longitude	Spectra
DRACO/URSA MINOR	100, 30	A6-16 UMin (?)
(Polaris)		A8-12 Dra (?)
URSA MAJOR	(26)	A5-10
alpha	29		14 Leo 29	gKO.
beta	23		18 Leo 48	A1.s
(20 Leo Minor)	37		20 Leo 18	A5.n
gamma	24		29 Leo 46	A0.ne
delta	23		0 Vir 21	A3.n
epsilon	24		8 Vir 13	A0.p
zeta	24		14 Vir 59	A2.sp
(80 UMaj/Alcor)	26		15 Vir 09	A5.V +
eta	50		26 Vir 13	B3.n
SIRIAN SYSTEM	22	A 5 - R1
beta Aurigae	20	A 11	29 Gem 12	A2.IV-V
alpha Canis Major	2	A 4.5	13 Can 23	A1.
alpha Canis Minor	3.5	R 2.3	25 Can 05	F5.IV-V
delta Leonis	20	A 12.4	10 Vir 31	A4.V
alpha Corona Bor.	21	A 1.0	11 Sco 27	A0.V
alpha Centaurus	1.32	A 14.5 **	28 Sco 51	dG4 + K5
alpha Ophiuchus	18	A 7.5	21 Sag 43	A5.III
Our Triple Sun	000			G2.V
				(** highest proper motion of any local star)
Other Possible Sirian System Members:
Caph	14		4 Tau 25	dF2.
Castor	14		19 Can 32	A2.s
Pollux	11		22 Can 31	gK0.
Regulus	21	R 2.3	29 Leo 08	B7.V
Denebola	13		20 Vir 55	A4.n
Vega	8	A 8.5	14 Cap 36	A1.
Altair	5		2 Aqu 39	A7.n
HYADES	44	Receding	5 Gem 06
			6 Gem 10
			7 Gem 15
			7 Gem 45
COMA BERENICES	77	A/R = 0	23 Vir 51
PLEIADES	126	R 5	29 Tau 09	(Alcyone)
PERSEUS	143	A 1-5	28 Tau 00
			1 Gem 23
			4 Gem 06
PRAESEPE	158	Receding	6 Leo 38
SCORPIO/CENTAURUS ASSOCIATION	168	A8 - R15
beta Crux			10 Sco 43
epsilon Centauri			14 Sco 42
alpha Lupi			22 Sco 42
delta Scorpii			1 Sag 49
sigma Scorpii			7 Sag 04
				(many more than these 5 listed)
ORION ASSOCIATION	360	R 11
ORION Moving Cluster
beta			16 Gem 07	B8.Ia
eta			19 Gem 27	B1.V
gamma			20 Gem 14	B2.III
delta			21 Gem 39	09.II
epsilon			22 Gem 45	B0.Ia
zeta			23 Gem 57	09. + B0.Ib
kappa			25 Gem 42	B0/1.
alpha			28 Gem 00	cM2.

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APPENDIX B The Four Cluster-System Trains
PERSEUS TRAIN

Cat. #	Name	Object	parsecs	Longitude	Latitude
7243	Lacerta	open cluster	790	3 Ari 34	+54
I.1396	Cepheus	open cluster	400	5 Ari 56	+63
7380	Cepheus	open cluster	790	19 Ari 35	+57
225	Cassiopeia	open cluster	520	12 Tau 15	+50
457	Cassiopeia	open cluster	660	14 Tau 43	+45
663	Cassiopeia	open cluster	790	21 Tau 03	+45
1039	Perseus	open cluster	440	21 Tau 02	+25
I.1805	Cass. M34	open cluster	660	28 Tau 04	+43
1342	Perseus	open cluster	830	29 Tau 04	+17
1528	Perseus	open cluster	870	10 Gem 47	+29
	VX Cassio.	T-association	750	8 Tau 15
	EO Perseus	T-association	700	22 Tau 38
I.1499	Perseus	Calif. Nebula	600	5 Gem 18	+15
	II Persei	O-association	400	0 Gem 15	+13
	III Persei	O-association	170	2 Gem 01	+30
	Alpha Perseus	moving cluster	143	28 Tau 00
				1 Gem 23
				4 Gem 06
SCORPIO/ CENTAURUS TRAIN
Cat. #	Name	Object	parsecs	Longitude	Latitude
	c Puppis	open cluster	280	10 Leo 14	-57
	o Vela	open cluster	260	13 Vir 42	-66
3114	Carina	open cluster	300	14 Lib 53	-63
I.2602	theta Carinae	open cluster	200	28 Lib 28	-62
4755	k Crux	open cluster	300	12 Sco 26	-48
6231	I Scorpio	O-association	380	16 Sag 23	-19
	M7	open cluster	250	28 Sag 03	-11
	M6	open cluster	450	25 Sag 02	-08
	Coal Sack	dark nebula	170	17 Lib 15	-11
	II Scorpio	OB-association	160	5 Sag 46	-04
I.4606	M spectra	bright nebula M	110	9 Sag 04	-04
I.4605	B spectra	bright nebula B	180	9 Sag 00	-03
I.2944	1 Centauri	bright nebula B	110	3 Sco 50	-56
I.4592	nu Scorpii	bright nebula B	120	3 Sag 36	+01
I.4603-4	rho Ophiu.	bright nebula B	120	7 Sag 40	-01
	rho Ophiu.	dark nebula	200	5 Sag 30	-02
	theta Ophiu.	dark nebula	250	21 Sag 23	-02
	alpha Scorpii	T-association	210	7 Sag 05
	V654 Centauri	T-association	300	25 Lib 32
	Scorpio/ Centaurus	moving cluster	168	26 Sco 05	(centroid)
M39 TRAIN
Cat. #	Name	Object	parsecs	Longitude	Latitude
7092	M39	open cluster	250	21 Pis 58
7000	No. Amer.	bright nebula	280	8 Pis 45
I.5067-0	Pelican	bright nebula	280	5 Pis 52
	Cygnus	dark nebula	250	19 Pis 38
	No. Amer.	dark nebula	200	7 Pis 00
V561	Cygnus	T-association	200	19 Pis 05
CE	Cygnus	T-association	150	9 Pis 16
ORION TRAIN
Cat. #	Name	Object	parsecs	Longitude	Latitude
2174-5	Orion	bright nebula O	1000	1 Can 34	-02
2237-9	Monoceros	Rosette Nebula O	1100	7 Can 46	-18
2261	R Monoceros	Hubble Nebula B	2000	9 Cen 17	-14
2264	S Monoceros	bright nebula O	1000	9 Cen 39	-13
1893	Auriga	open cluster	790	22 Gem 01	+10
2169	Orion	open cluster	790	1 Can 24	-09
2168	Gemini M35	open cluster	790	1 Can 17	+00
2264	S Monoceros	open cluster	870	9 Can 42	-13
2287	CanisMaj M41	open cluster	760	14 Cen 33	-43
2323	Monocer. M50	open cluster	800	17 Can 29	-30
2353	Monoceros	open cluster	950	21 Can 11	-32
2360	Canis Major	open cluster	950	23 Can 05	-37
	S Monoceros	dark nebula	600	8 Can 05	-26
	Orion	dark nebula	300	18 Gem 41	-28
	Orion	OB-association	300	21 Gem 21	-25
	CO Orion	T-association	400	21 Gem 32	-11
	T Orion	T-association	400	21 Gem 31	-28
	sigma Orion	T-association	400	22 Gem 52	-25
	FU Orion	T-association	400	24 Gem 34	-14
	RR Taurus	T-association	200	26 Gem 27	+02
	Orion	moving cluster	360	23 Gem 39	convergence point