Constellations

9.2  Constellations
 
  • Constellations are clusters of stars that appear to form a specific pattern in the night sky.
  • Not all constellations can be seen from all locations on Earth. 
  • Some constellations can be seen in the northern hemisphere, some in the southern hemisphere, and some can be seen between the northern hemisphere and the southern hemisphere.
 
Constellations Features

Big Dipper/Ursa Major

  • Resembles a dipper/spoon
  • Formed from a cluster of seven stars
  • Can be seen in the northern hemisphere
  • Indicates the north

Orion

  • Form a pattern like a hunter wearing a belt and holding a weapon
  • Indicates the north
  • Can be seen in the northern hemisphere & southern hemisphere

Crux

  • The smallest constellation
  • Consists of a cluster of four stars
  • Form a kite/crucifix pattern
  • Indicates the south
  • Can be seen in the southern hemisphere

Scorpio

  • Consists of star clusters that form a scorpion-like pattern
  • Can be seen in the southern hemisphere
 
Uses of constellations
  1. Sailors and travelers use constellations to show directions.
  2. Farmers use constellations to mark the arrival of the planting and harvesting seasons.
  3. Astronomers use constellations to study stars.
 
 

Constellations

9.2  Constellations
 
  • Constellations are clusters of stars that appear to form a specific pattern in the night sky.
  • Not all constellations can be seen from all locations on Earth. 
  • Some constellations can be seen in the northern hemisphere, some in the southern hemisphere, and some can be seen between the northern hemisphere and the southern hemisphere.
 
Constellations Features

Big Dipper/Ursa Major

  • Resembles a dipper/spoon
  • Formed from a cluster of seven stars
  • Can be seen in the northern hemisphere
  • Indicates the north

Orion

  • Form a pattern like a hunter wearing a belt and holding a weapon
  • Indicates the north
  • Can be seen in the northern hemisphere & southern hemisphere

Crux

  • The smallest constellation
  • Consists of a cluster of four stars
  • Form a kite/crucifix pattern
  • Indicates the south
  • Can be seen in the southern hemisphere

Scorpio

  • Consists of star clusters that form a scorpion-like pattern
  • Can be seen in the southern hemisphere
 
Uses of constellations
  1. Sailors and travelers use constellations to show directions.
  2. Farmers use constellations to mark the arrival of the planting and harvesting seasons.
  3. Astronomers use constellations to study stars.