Part of a series of articles titled Joshua Tree Virtual Junior Ranger Program.
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Create your own Constellation
The night sky is a giant story book!
People all over the world connect stars into patterns. These shapes are called constellations. One of the most famous constellations is the Big Dipper. Some native communities refer to this constellation as Big Bear. The ancient Greeks also saw a bear from this star pattern! In Australia this constellation is known as the Canoe, while farmers in England have called it the Plow. All over the world people create stories from these images. Tonight, go outside and look up at the night sky.
People all over the world connect stars into patterns. These shapes are called constellations. One of the most famous constellations is the Big Dipper. Some native communities refer to this constellation as Big Bear. The ancient Greeks also saw a bear from this star pattern! In Australia this constellation is known as the Canoe, while farmers in England have called it the Plow. All over the world people create stories from these images. Tonight, go outside and look up at the night sky.
Photo: NPS / Brad Sutton
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On a sheet of paper, draw the stars you see and connect them into a pattern.
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Next, write a story about your constellation.
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What is your constellation's name?
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How did it form?
Last updated: August 1, 2020