Question

How have people used stars throughout history? Select all that apply.

creating calendars

providing specific coordinates for places on Earth

navigating

tracking the motion of the planets in Earth's solar system

Answer 1

All of the above.

- Creating calendars: cultures used heliacal risings and constellations (e.g., Sirius, Orion) to mark seasons and agricultural cycles.
- Providing specific coordinates for places on Earth: navigators measured star altitudes and used celestial fixes (latitude and, with time or lunar methods, longitude) to determine position.
- Navigating: sailors and travelers used stars (Polaris, star paths, constellations) to find direction and course.
- Tracking the motion of the planets: astronomers recorded planets’ positions against the fixed stars to study their orbits and develop planetary models.