UNIT ONE

What is a constellation?

• A single bright star in the sky.
• A group of stars forming recognizable images in the human mind.
• A star cluster physically close together.
• A planet's orbital path.

Answer explanation

Constellations are groups of stars forming patterns recognizable to humans.

What is true about stars in a constellation?

• They must be physically close to each other.
• They are always the brightest stars in the sky.
• They may include other stars within their body that are not part of the constellation.
• They are part of the same galaxy.

Answer explanation

Stars in a constellation may include others that are not part of its outline.

What does the term 'constellation' mean?

• 'A map of the heavens' in Latin.
• 'Set with stars' in Latin.
• 'Celestial grouping' in Greek.
• 'Heavenly figure' in Greek.

Answer explanation

The Latin origin of 'constellation' is 'set with stars'.

What is an asterism?

• A large constellation with many stars.
• A smaller grouping of stars within or outside a constellation.
• A type of nebula near a star cluster.
• A planet's trajectory across the night sky.

Answer explanation

An asterism is a noticeable star pattern that might not be an official constellation.

Which of these is an example of an asterism?

• Ursa Major
• Big Dipper
• Orion
• Andromeda

Answer explanation

The Big Dipper is a well-known asterism within Ursa Major.

What is the Summer Triangle?

• A constellation visible in summer.
• A grouping of three stars from different constellations.
• A navigational pattern used by ancient sailors.
• A cluster of stars forming a triangle in Ursa Major.

Answer explanation

The Summer Triangle is an asterism made of stars from three different constellations.

How were constellations used in navigation?

• By tracking comets across the sky.
• By using the brightest stars to mark directions.
• By monitoring the position of the Moon.
• By observing meteor showers.

Answer explanation

Sailors used bright stars in constellations for navigation.

Why is Polaris significant for navigation?

• It is the brightest star in the sky.
• It is located near the celestial equator.
• Its position near true north makes it a reliable guide in the Northern Hemisphere.
• It changes its position seasonally, helping to track time.

Answer explanation

Polaris is close to the north celestial pole, aiding navigation in the Northern Hemisphere.

How did the Greeks use Orion in their agricultural calendar?

• To signal the start of winnowing grain when it first rises in the east around June.
• To predict rainfall based on its brightness.
• To mark the beginning of the harvest season when it sets in the west.
• To determine the length of the day.

Answer explanation

The rising of Orion in June marked the time for winnowing grain.

What marks the grape harvest season in Greek culture?

• Orion setting in the west.
• Orion directly overhead in October.
• Polaris becoming visible at dusk.
• Orion’s Belt disappearing below the horizon.

Answer explanation

Orion being directly overhead in October signified the grape harvest season.