Constellations 1

Constellations 1

A constellation is a group of stars that are connected together to form a figure or picture. E.g. Orion (containing a figure of a hunter), Leo, Scorpius, and Crux (a cross). The International Astronomical Union (IAU) divides the sky into 88 official constellations with exact boundaries, so that every direction or place in the sky belongs within one constellation. In the northern celestial hemisphere, these are mostly based upon the constellations of the ancient Greek tradition, and contains the signs of the zodiac. The sun appears to pass through the 12 constellations of the zodiac and ancient Greek astronomers believed they had a special significance.

Ursa Major

Ursa Minor

Draco

Sagittarius

Scutum

Cancer

Lion and Leo Minor

Virgo

Columba

Gemini

Canis Major

Lepus