konstellatsioonidel

Konstellatsioonidel, commonly referred to as constellations, are groupings of stars that appear to form patterns in the night sky. These patterns are often named after mythological figures, animals, or inanimate objects. Historically, constellations served practical purposes for navigation and timekeeping, aiding sailors and agricultural communities. Ancient civilizations like the Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks developed their own sets of constellations based on their cultural beliefs and observations.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) officially recognizes 88 constellations that divide the entire celestial sphere. While the stars within a constellation may appear close together from Earth, they are often vast distances apart in reality, with no physical connection between them. The perceived patterns are a result of perspective. Over time, the appearance of constellations can subtly change due to the proper motion of stars, though these changes are imperceptible to the naked eye over human lifespans. Astronomy uses constellations as convenient reference points for locating celestial objects like stars, nebulae, and galaxies.