Urania

Urania is one of the nine Muses in Greek mythology, revered as the patron of astronomy. She is typically depicted with a celestial globe or a staff and is associated with the heavens, the cosmos, and the rational study of the stars. In myth, Urania inspires scholars, astronomers, and teachers who seek to understand the order of the universe.

Her name comes from the Greek word meaning “the heavenly one,” and she is often distinguished from other Muses by her focus on celestial knowledge rather than the arts of poetry or music. Urania’s influence is seen in later astronomical and educational contexts that seek to connect wonder with learning.

In astronomy, 33 Urania is a large main-belt asteroid named after the muse.

In biology, Urania is a genus of day-flying moths in the family Uraniidae. They are known for their bright iridescent green wings and daytime activity, and several species are included in the genus, such as Urania leilus and Urania fulgens.

Other uses include Urania’s Mirror, a nineteenth-century collection of celestial cards that illustrated constellations and were named in honor of the muse.