Tähdistöjen

Tähdistöjen is the Finnish word for constellations. A constellation is a group of stars that appears to form a pattern or figure in the night sky. Throughout history, various cultures have identified different patterns and given them names, often based on mythological figures, animals, or objects. While the stars within a constellation are not physically close to each other in space, they are located in the same general direction as seen from Earth.

There are officially recognized constellations that divide the entire celestial sphere. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) established a set of 88 official constellations in the early 20th century. These constellations serve as boundaries for mapping the sky, much like countries on a map. Astronomers use these defined areas to refer to the location of celestial objects.

Familiar examples of constellations include Ursa Major, which contains the Big Dipper asterism, Orion the Hunter, and Leo the Lion. Many constellations have their own unique stories and legends associated with them, passed down through generations. Observing tähdistöjen can be a rewarding way to connect with the night sky and appreciate the vastness of the universe.