They are a mix of the ancient Greek patterns recorded by Ptolemy as well as some more “modern” patterns observed later by more modern astronomers. The IAU adopted three-letter abbreviations of the constellation names at its inaugural General Assembly in Rome in 1922.
Hundreds of the brightest stars, those visible with the unaided eye, were given names in ancient times. … Today stars are named by their coordinates on the celestial sphere. This is an imaginary sphere surrounding Earth.
A constellation is an area of the celestial sphere as defined by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in the early 20th century. Constellations are used for orientation and arranged in a grid-like map of the sky. … The borders of the modern 88 constellations were defined by the IAU in the early 20th century.
On the order form the constellations are listed by their Latin name, followed by the English equivalent. If you are undecided, the constellation name that most captures the spirit of the occasion, or enhances the significance of the gift is usually your best choice.
a. A grouping of stars on the celestial sphere perceived as a figure or design, especially one of the 88 recognized groups named after characters from classical Greek and Roman mythology as well as various common animals and objects.
The International Astronomical Union recognizes 88 constellations covering the entire northern and southern sky.
Arcturus is a red giant star in the Northern Hemisphere of Earth's sky and the brightest star in the constellation Boötes (the herdsman). Arcturus is also among the brightest stars that can be seen from Earth. Astronomers say Arcturus will end up as a white dwarf at the end of its life.
A constellation is a group of stars that together form specific patterns. … Aries and Ursa major are the two examples of constellations.
Twelve constellations were created by Dutch explorers who sailed to Indonesia in 1595. They were named after the animals the explorers encountered on their journeys. These constellations were first depicted on a celestial globe designed by the Dutch-Flemish astronomer Petrus Plancius in 1597/1598.