There are 88 constellations, or star patterns, in the night sky. In 1929, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) defined 88 modern constellations that can be seen in the northern and southern hemispheres, and, although they are imaginary shapes, they serve an important function.
Constellations
✓ Break the sky into different parts
✓ Are used for navigation
✓ Are used to keep track of the seasons
Derek Kuhl, M.D., generated four maps of the constellations spanning a calendar year. January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1, all for the 10 PM time period in the Bryan-College Station area, are represented in the maps below, each set to show magnitude 4 stars, which would function for our local area.
Click each thumbnail to open a large pdf. Print the map and take it to the field with you.
January 1 - 10 p.m.
Bryan-College Station, TX
April 1 - 10 p.m.
Bryan-College Station, TX
July 1 - 10 p.m.
Bryan-College Station, TX
October 1 - 10 p.m.
Bryan-College Station, TX
Southern Cross Photo by Randy Light, M.D.
CONTACT EMAIL:
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Coordinator - Randy Light, M.D.
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outreach@brazosvalleyastronomyclub.org
Coordinator - Tom Campbell
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Coordinator - Randy Light, M.D.
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The Brazos Valley Astronomy Club is a non-profit group located in Bryan-College Station, Texas.
Our goal is to promote astronomy and related science as a hobby for people of all ages.