Tähtkujuks

Tähtkujuks is the Estonian word for constellation. A constellation is a group of stars forming a recognizable pattern that is traditionally named after its apparent form or identified with a mythological figure. While the stars within a constellation may appear close together from Earth, they are often vastly separated in space. Ancient cultures used constellations to navigate, tell stories, and mark the passage of time.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) currently officially recognizes 88 constellations. These constellations cover the entire celestial sphere, meaning that no matter where you are on Earth, you can see a portion of these recognized patterns. Each of these official constellations has defined boundaries, so that every point in the sky belongs to exactly one constellation. This standardization helps astronomers precisely locate celestial objects.

Historically, many more constellations were recognized, and their boundaries and names could vary between different cultures and even within regions. The modern system of 88 constellations largely derives from the classical Greco-Roman traditions, as codified by Ptolemy in his Almagest. However, many of these patterns have been observed and named independently by other cultures throughout history, often with different interpretations and stories associated with them. The study and identification of constellations is a fundamental part of astronomy and has played a significant role in human culture and scientific development.