How to Use the Patterns of Constellations to Date

Before there were clocks, watches, wall time monitors, and computers, there were people who could look at the night sky and determine where the seasons were, and what weather to expect for the next month. Some of this tracking and prediction ability came from watching the positions of the stars in relation to the view from the ground. Numerous cultures created different calendars based on this ability and observation. The same process can still be used today to roughly determine the time and seasons.

Things You'll Need

  • Star charts
  • Pen
  • Notepad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a set of star charts. Pick from the four charts the time of the year's season you are currently experiencing: winter, spring, summer or fall. Wait for a clear night and step outside. Turn off any outside lights so you can get a clear view of the night sky.

    • 2

      Use a flashlight to reference your star chart as needed. Examine the sky for which constellations are visible. Note their position in the night sky in comparison to your star chart.

    • 3

      Note the position of a given constellation in the sky as to whether it just appears on the horizon, is in the middle of the horizon, or fades off another edge of the horizon. Jot down your observations with a pen on a notepad.

    • 4

      After a few observations, compare your notes with your star chart. Arrive at a conclusion as to whether you are at the beginning, middle, or end of a season, based on the observed constellation positions. Continue to do the same for new constellations as they appear.

    • 5

      Compare your observations with a regular calendar. Note at what months constellations appear on your start chart. Continue the process until you have a complete set over 12 months. Use your constellation position system to determine a rough date and season in the future.