tähtikuvioon

Tähtikuvio is a Finnish word that translates to "constellation" in English. A constellation is a group of stars that appear to form a pattern or picture in the night sky. Historically, these patterns were named by ancient civilizations based on mythological figures, animals, or objects. While the stars within a constellation may not be physically close to each other in space, their alignment from Earth's perspective creates the recognizable shapes.

There are officially 88 recognized constellations, defined by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). These constellations cover the entire celestial sphere, ensuring that every part of the sky is assigned to a specific region. Some of the most well-known constellations include Ursa Major (the Great Bear), Orion (the Hunter), and Cassiopeia. Ancient cultures used constellations for various purposes, including navigation, timekeeping, and religious ceremonies.

Modern astronomy uses constellations primarily as a way to divide the sky into manageable sections for cataloging and referencing celestial objects. While the visual patterns remain, the scientific focus is on the boundaries of these regions rather than the perceived shapes of the stars themselves. Observing constellations can be a popular pastime for amateur astronomers and stargazers, offering a connection to both the natural world and ancient traditions.