Quiz 2: constellations Flashcards
What were constellations originally defined by?
The shapes made by their patterns
What does “constellation” mean in Latin?
“Set with Stars”
How many constellations are there?
88
How does the IAU define a constellation?
By its boundary not its pattern
How many ancient constellation are there?
50
How many modern constellation?
38
Ptolemy’s 48 constellation
12 of 48 are zodiac constellations
What is the fifth largest constellation and what does it symbolize?
Hercules.
Symbolize the legendary Greek Hero
Who calculated Draco?
Ptolemy
What’s the Triangulum constellation?
Resembles the greek letter delta
When and were were the first constellation calculated?
On the walls of a cave in France. 17,300 years ago.
What is the largest constellation?
Hydra
What is the smallest constellation?
Crux.
Composed of five stars
Northern Circumpolar Constellation
Ursa Major (Big Bear). Third largest constellation. Visible all year long.
Ursa Minor
Little Bear.
Visible all year.
Will help you find Polaris.
Zodiac constellations
12 constellations along the plane of ecliptic.
The sun passes through these constellations in a course of the year.
Aries
Formed by five stars.
Hamal is the largest and most visible in Aries.
Hamal is an orange star.
Taurus
The bull.
Visible in the northern sky from Nov. to March.
The brightest star in Taurus is Aldeberan
Orion
One of the largest constellations
Visible around the world
Best viewed in January
Orion’s belt
Three stars called “Three Sisters” or “Three Kings”
Use of constellations
Used to help keep track of the calendar.
Used for navigation.
