When you go out at nighttime and you start to gaze at the star-filled skies, you might begin to think how far these stars are, or how they are distinguished from the planets, or simply, how these stars, no matter how identical they may seem to the naked eye, each have a name! And why is it effortless for astronomers to find different stars (or any celestial body at that!) at the click of a finger. Easy—through the aid of astronomy maps.
There are many maps that are used in the field of astronomy, the most common of which are the so-called sky maps. Sky maps chart the locations of different heavenly bodies at a given time and date at a certain location (northern or southern hemisphere). A planisphere is a common example of a map used to locate stars or constellations in the sky. The simpler term for a planisphere is a star finder.
There are certain sky maps that can be used to pinpoint the lunar phases in any given month and there are also those that are updated weekly. For example, in Indianapolis (or in any area that is near it), the month of January 2007 promises that the planets that are commonly seen just with our naked eyes are clearly visible throughout the month. Also, the constellations that are usually seen during summer are starting to ‘come out’.
There are many sources of astronomy maps. Obtaining one nowadays is as easy as 1-2-3. Some can be found as a part of astronomy magazines or books. Sometimes they can be bought on their own. And, of course, there are websites that offer free map information and downloads. An example of these websites is: Skymaps.com. Skymaps.com is the most famous site for downloading sky maps. Aside from the availability of sky maps on the web, there are also added features such as 3D or even 4D presentations of the locations of constellations and other celestial objects.
So, if your loved one has named a star after you, don't try to remember where it is by simply looking if it’s a bit on the east or a little bit to the west. Instead, plot where it is and grab any astronomy map out there. Next, pinpoint the exact location. Believe me, you will be looking at the correct ‘romantic star’ each and every time if you use your astronomy map!
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