The positions of the stars in the celestial sphere have remained almost unchanged since prehistoric times. Each of the early civilizations grouped the stars into various constellations. Historically, some constellations were taken to represent gods or mythical beings (or sometimes their dwellings). Other groups were thought to resemble animals or objects on earth—although in most cases, seeing the resemblance demands a vivid imagination. Stories and myths were woven around the gods and animals, however, and this helped people to remember the constellations’ names and positions. For example, Orion, the Hunter, is seen to be keeping at bay Taurus, the Bull.
The various civilizations gave different names to their own constellations, but many of the modern names are of Greek or Roman origin. Early Arab astronomers were responsible for naming many of the individual stars. This dates from the time when Arab culture and astrology flourished in the valleys of the rivers Tigris and Euphrates, during the first millennium A.D. Navigators and explorers at that time began to venture farther into the Southern Hemisphere and gradually became aware of new constellations in the southern skies.Read More The constellations
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