Constellation
BeginnerDefinition
A grouping of stars that forms a recognizable pattern or figure when viewed from Earth, often named after mythological characters, animals, or objects. Constellations serve as reference points for navigation and have been central to human storytelling for millennia.
Example Usage
Orion is one of the most recognizable constellations in the night sky, visible from both hemispheres.
Origin
From Latin 'constellatio' (set with stars), derived from 'con-' (together) and 'stella' (star).
Fun Fact
While constellations appear to form coherent patterns from Earth, the stars within them are actually at vastly different distances from us; the pattern is purely a perspective illusion.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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