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.

However — as you might have guessed from the name “Gamma Canis Majoris”, constellations are still used in physics. We use them to locate objects on the night sky, by associating them with a ...