How to Study the Constellations
Humans have always stared into the starry night sky and told stories of why the stars formed certain shapes. According to modern astronomical science there are 88 distinguishable images called constellations. Today, these constellations are associated with horoscopes, and scientifically they represent a part of life that we know very little about -- the cosmos. These constellations have been adopted throughout man's history, and represent Babylonian, Greek, Roman, among other cultures' history and mythos.
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Instructions
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Analyze star patterns for shape, size, and brightness. As each constellation has a distinctive pattern, learn what separates one from another so you can recall the name by its characteristics, however, do not assume that because a constellation is named Leo that you will be able to distinguish the lion's mane from its claw. Learn how to draw a constellation and identify the major stars associated with it. Once you can identify one constellation, try to associate another by its relative location to the original constellation until you have identified the major constellations.
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Begin viewing early in the year to see the first season stars. As different stars can be seen at different times of the year, in order to identify each constellation you must identify which stars can be seen the different times of the year: starting between January 22 and 29, the Early Winter constellations include Orion, Perseus, Cassiopeia, Gemini and Taurus. The Late Winter Constellations of Canis Major, Cancer, Auriga, Leo and Ursa Major are first visible between February 26 and March 4. Early Spring sees the arrival of Ursa Minor, Bootes, Virgo, Centaurus and Crux between April 15 and 22.
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Travel to alternate locations to observe circumpolar constellations.The tilt and rotation of the Earth dictates which constellations you see from one point or another throughout the year. In the northern sky, you can see Auriga, Camelopardalis, Cassiopeia, Cepheus, Draco, Lynx, Perseus, Ursa Major, and Ursa Minor. Constellations of the southern sky include Grus, Phoenix, Indus, Tucana, Pavo, Ara, Eridanus, Hyrdus, Horologium, Reticulum, Octans, Apus, Triangulum Australe, Lupus, Circinus, Musca, Crux, Centaurus, Carina, Vela, Puppis, Dorado and Chamaeleon.
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As there are thousands of visible stars, studying constellations requires time and patience. Utilize various tools such as telescopes or star charts to help you distinguish the constellations that are not as bright or as visible as others. Remember as well that constellations may have different names depending on the cultural influences and references. Record your findings in your own star journal so you have an investment in learning the constellations.
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