Constellation Definition

We understand by constellation that group of stars that have a specific shape and characteristics. The constellations are artificial forms created by the human being to better understand a particular group of stars and although they are not marked in space, astronomy establishes lines and connections between them forming different figures and symbols (which generally represent mythical characters).

The constellation is, then, a shape that is symbolically established on the starry sky that we observe from our point on planet Earth. An important detail to keep in mind is that the stars or celestial bodies that are part of a constellation may not be close to each other despite the fact that they all appear the same to the naked eye. In general, the constellations have stars of different sizes, some being brighter and more noticeable than others.

The organization of the stars in constellations is a practice that existed since ancient times when civilizations such as the Mesopotamians, the Greeks and the Orientals carried out such a practice. The main objective of this action was to distinguish the stars in a more accessible and rapid way, which served for both terrestrial and maritime location. It goes without saying that, at the same time, these constellations received a transcendent magical character and that is why they were related to animals or mythical characters.

The constellations can be divided into those that are to the north and those that are to the south of the Equator. Today, they continue to be analyzed and taken into account, for example all the characters of the Zodiac are represented. The International Astronomical Union recognizes 88 of them. The best way to observe the constellations is from an open space, since urban centers (due to buildings and air pollution) do not allow you to observe more than a couple of them.

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