The constellation names usually came from the astronomers who identified the patterns based on what the shape reminded them of, typically a Greek or Roman mythical god, hero, or animal.

The constellation names usually came from the astronomers who identified the patterns based on what the shape reminded them of, typically a Greek or Roman mythical god, hero, or animal.

How the Night Sky Constellations Got Their Names. News. By Joe Rao published 1 May 2012 When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

Over half of the 88 official constellation names are attributed to the ancient Greeks. The International Astronomical Union governs the naming of these star-formed “patterns.” The first known ...