A constellation is an area on the celestial sphere in which a group of visible stars forms a perceived

pattern or outline, typically representing an animal, mythological subject, or inanimate object.[1]

Four views of the constellation Orion:

Top: Baroque drawing of Orion from Johannes Hevelius' star atlas Firmamentum Sobiescianum, showing
the stars as they would appear to an observer looking down upon the imaginary celestial sphere from
the outside (left); and illustration from the medieval Persian astronomical text Book of Fixed Stars (right)

Bottom: Contemporary map of Orion from the IAU (left); and photograph of the night sky with drawn
lines (right)

The origins of the earliest constellations likely go back to prehistory. People used them to relate stories
of their beliefs, experiences, creation, or mythology. Different cultures and countries invented their own
constellations, some of which lasted into the early 20th century before today's constellations were
internationally recognized. The recognition of constellations has changed significantly over time. Many
changed in size or shape. Some became popular, only to drop into obscurity. Some were limited to a
single culture or nation. Naming constellations also helped astronomers and navigators identify stars
more easily.[2]