Constellation

What is constellation?

A group of stars that appear to form a pattern in the sky or appear visibly related to each other. Examples are Orion (which appears like a human figure with a belt, often referred to as "The Hunter"), Leo (which contains bright stars that outline the form of a lion),Scorpius (which can seem reminiscent of a scorpion), and Crux (a cross).

Used by the human from long time ago for directions and navigations especially the sailors during their quests across the continent searching for fame and glory. These constellation also used by the farmers to indicate the time of the year specifically the season for planting and harvesting crops.

How to identify them?

There are 88 official constellations defined by the IAU (International Astronomical Union) are mostly based upon those of the ancient Greek tradition but the most common constellation used in human life are The Big Dipper, Southern Cross, Scorpio and The Orion.

1. The Big Dipper

Can be seen in the North Pole between April and June, around 8 pm to 10 pm.

A group of seven bright stars that form a pattern of bowl with a long handle.

To indicate the spring season

The North Star indicates the direction to the north.

Only visible in the northern hemisphere.

2. The Southern Cross

Can be seen in the South Pole between April and June, around 8 pm to 10 pm.

A group of four bright stars that form a pattern of cross with the vertical axis pointing the south.

Can only be seen in the southern hemisphere

To indicate the spring season

3. The Orion

Can be seen between Junes and August, around 8 pm to 10 pm.

It represents the greatest Greek hunter with a belt and sword.

To indicate the winter season.

4. The Scorpio

Can be seen between December and February, around 8 pm to 10 pm.

It represents the scorpion with a head, long body and stinger.

To indicate the summer season.

5. The Aquarius

 Aquarius indicates the autumn season.

Used by farmers to determine the time to begin planting during summer or harvesting crops during autumn.