A nakshatra is a term from Vedic astrology that refers to one of the 27 lunar mansions or divisions of the sky. Each nakshatra represents a specific segment of the celestial sphere, associated with particular stars and constellations. They play a crucial role in determining an individual's personality traits, life events, and astrological predictions based on the position of the moon at the time of their birth. Each nakshatra is further divided into four quarters, known as padas, which add more detail to astrological interpretations. The characteristics of a nakshatra are influenced by its ruling deity and planetary associations, making them significant in the study of horoscopes and Vedic astrology.