There is a constellation called Crux, which is the Southern Cross. It was named first (I believe) by Magellen when they observed it during their voyage. I imagine that Magellen used it to calm the fears of his crew.

The constellation that is sometimes referred to as the Northern Cross, is officially Cygnus the Swan.

I had a class of YEC's come to the observatory once, and they got pretty agitated when I told them how far away the Andromeda Galaxy is.

__________________
"I'm as accurate as any psychic. And I'm a cartoon!" -- Squidward

"Arrrgh, the laws of physics be a harsh mistress!" -- Bender