Constellation
Constellation
Constellation (/kɒnstɛˈleɪʃən/), from the Latin constellātiō, which means "set with stars", is a group of stars that are considered to form an imaginary outline or pattern on the celestial sphere, typically representing an animal, mythological person or creature, or an inanimate object.
The origins of the earliest constellations likely go back to prehistory. People used them to relate stories of their beliefs, experiences, creation, or mythology. Different cultures and countries adopted their own constellations, some of which lasted into the early 20th century before today's constellations were internationally recognized.
Etymology
The term constellation comes from the Late Latin term constellātiō, which can be translated as "set of stars". The term was first used in astrology, to denote a certain position of stars and planets, which was believed to influence the fate of the newborn.
Related Terms
- Asterism: A pattern of stars that is not officially recognized as a constellation.
- Celestial sphere: An imaginary sphere of which the observer is the center and on which all celestial objects are considered to lie.
- Zodiac: A circle of twelve 30° divisions of celestial longitude that are centered upon the ecliptic: the path of the Sun across the celestial sphere over the course of the year.
- Star cluster: A group of stars that share a common origin and are gravitationally bound for some length of time.
- Galaxy: A gravitationally bound system of stars, stellar remnants, interstellar gas, dust, and dark matter.
See Also
- List of constellations
- List of constellations by area
- List of star names
- 88 modern constellations
- Former constellations
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Constellation
- Wikipedia's article - Constellation
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