Catasterism

/ˌkætəˈstɛrɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The mythological process or tradition of transforming a person, animal, or object into a constellation or celestial body.

Etymology

From Greek 'kata' (down, into) + 'aster' (star) + '-ism' (a system or practice). The concept comes from ancient Greek mythology where gods would immortalize beings by placing them in the sky as constellations.

Kelly Says

Every constellation has a story—catasterism is the mythological explanation for why we see patterns of stars named after heroes, lovers, and monsters, giving ancient peoples a way to understand the night sky as a history book written in light.

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