tähtiatlaksia

A Star Atlas is a collection of star charts or maps that display the positions and magnitudes of stars. These atlases are compiled by astronomers and are used for various purposes, including navigation, research, and education. Historically, star atlases were printed books, but in modern times, they are often available as digital databases or interactive software.

The earliest known star atlases date back to ancient civilizations, such as the Babylonians and Egyptians, who created charts of the night sky for astronomical and astrological purposes. During the Renaissance, astronomers like Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler developed more accurate and comprehensive star catalogs, which laid the groundwork for later atlases. The invention of the telescope further revolutionized celestial mapping, allowing for the observation of fainter stars and the creation of more detailed charts.

Modern star atlases can range from general guides for amateur astronomers to highly specialized catalogs used by professional researchers. They typically include information such as stellar coordinates (right ascension and declination), apparent magnitude, spectral type, and sometimes proper motion. Prominent examples of widely used star atlases include the Bright Star Catalogue, the Hipparcos Catalogue, and the Yale Bright Star Catalogue. Digital atlases often offer features like zooming, searching, and overlaying different celestial objects, providing a dynamic and interactive way to explore the cosmos.