A constellation is a group of stars that form a recognizable pattern in the night sky. These patterns are often named after mythological figures, animals, or objects, making them easier to identify. There are 88 officially recognized constellations, as defined by the International Astronomical Union. Constellations have been used for centuries for navigation and storytelling. Ancient cultures, such as the Greeks and Chinese, created their own constellations based on the stars they observed. Today, constellations help astronomers locate celestial objects and understand the structure of our Milky Way galaxy.