When gazing into the night sky, at first you just see bright shiny stars. However, upon closer inspection, you will be met with a mesmerizing world of dazzling complexity — constellations. These magnificent figures in the sky have inspired many whether it is through deeper research into our universe, reflection of one’s self or storytelling.
The most commonly known constellations are Ursa Major and Ursa Minor, also known as the Big Dipper and the Little Dipper. They get this name from their unique shape resembling a spoon. Another famous constellation, Orion, is made up of over 81 stars connecting to depict a gallant warrior preparing for battle. Some of the best-known constellations are not even recognized as constellations. In fact, the 12 zodiac signs are not only there to entertain fantasies but are actual shapes in the sky.
Stars are visible from all over the world, and many different stories originate from the stars. The Pleiades constellation, for example, tells the story of seven sisters. How the sisters got into the sky is disputed, with multiple versions of the story. In the indigenous Australian culture the sisters were chased by various ill-intentioned men until they were able to escape them entirely by going into the sky and turning into stars. In Greek mythology, Zeus protected the sisters from a dangerous force by turning them into doves and letting them reside in the sky. These constellations were used as signals to Indigenous Americans as a time to harvest their crops because the stars would disappear during the spring.
Throughout the industrialization of the modern age, astrology and the technology that monitors it has advanced greatly. Instead of tracking the stars with paper maps, we are now able to see the night sky through our smartphones. Star Tracker and Sky Map are two apps that allow you to explore what is right above you. You simply hold your phone above your head and instantly you will be able to find out which constellations are around you. The apps give you more information about the stars and history surrounding the constellations.
Also due to industrialization the act of stargazing and looking for constellations has been hindered. In order to see the stars dancing around the night sky it needs to be dark. Unfortunately, there are few locations that are free from light pollution, especially in the Bay Area as it is surrounded by constantly illuminated buildings. When trying to find the perfect place to watch the constellations play, make sure there is a lack of outside light sources. Try to find a dark empty parking lot, a field or a hill in order to view the constellations in all of their glory.
Whether it was a thousand years ago or just yesterday, constellations have always dazzled earthlings. Since the start of humanity we’ve marveled at them and it will stay that way till the end of time.
