What are constellations?
Constellations are arbitrary groupings of stars. In some cases they constitute a recognizable pattern.
How did the stars come to be grouped into constellations?
In ancient times, astrologers and astronomers grouped the stars into constellations and divided the celestial sphere into various regions according to the predominant constellation in each region.
What relationships do the constellations have with one another?
A constellation appears as such only when observed from Earth. Actually, each star in the constellation is of different size and at a different distance from the earth.
Does a constellation appear the same irrespective of the point of observation?
No. if the observer is situated in space very far from the earth, the appearance of a constellation would change depending on the point of observation. A constellation, therefore, is not a real star grouping and has no true astronomical significance.
How many constellations are there?
There has been some confusion in defining the constellations among the astrologers and astronomers over the years but by international convention; eighty eight major constellations have now been recognized.
In which constellation is the centre of the Milky Way located?
Sagittarius.
How appropriate are the names of the constellations?
In some cases the name is somewhat appropriate, whereas in others there appears to be no appropriateness.
Which constellation honours Julius Ceasar?
The stars of the constellation Libra were originally part of the constellation Scorpio and represented the claws of the scorpion. The Romans designated it as a separate constellation, Libra, representing scales of justice in honour of Julius Ceasar who introduced the Julian calendar and was reputed for his justice.
In which constellation is Alpha Centauri, the star system closet to the Sun, located?
Centaurus.
How are the individual stars in a constellation formally designated?
In modern sky charts, Greek alphabets are used to designate the stars in a constellation. For example, the constellation Centauries has four stars designated Alpha Centauri, Beta Centauri, Gamma Centauri , Gamma Centauri and Omega Centauri.