Introduction: Since the earliest of human history, people have gazed upon the night sky. They found patterns in its points of light. Today we know those pinpoints of light are stars. Stars are huge, light emitting spheres of hot gas. People watched the star patterns rise and set from dusk to dawn. The patterns shifted position over the course of a year. It is no wonder that without light pollution to dim starlight or telescopes for scientific observations, star patterns were named and stories created about them. These star patterns are the basis for our modern constellations.

Today, we have a much better understanding about constellations and their motions across the sky. However, there is still something marvelous about staring up at the night sky and looking for those ancient patterns.

Directions for This Lesson: In this lesson, you will learn about constellations. First, try the practice questions to determine what you already know. Then, watch the video lesson.