BellaOnline Forums Education Astronomy ABC of Astronomy – A Is for Astronomy *new*

In the ABC of astronomy, astronomy itself is the first and most important item. What is astronomy and how does it differ from astrology? What are the main specialist areas in astronomy and how do they contribute to the overall picture?

ABC of Astronomy – A Is for Astronomy

Astronomy and astrology diverged several hundred years ago. Professional astronomers aren't astrologers anymore, but not everyone has caught up with that. I wonder if this cartoon is just a joke or based on a true story.

Parallax works in space as it does for surveyors on Earth. Measuring star positions to calculate distance is one application of astrometry.

Most stars are too far away to see any parallax, so these measurements are done by dedicated astrometric satellites such as Hipparcos and Gaia.

Hi Mona,

This joke certainly was worth a smile - and I would say it is based on a true experience had by some poor Astronomy lecturer ... though the message is mixed, and doesn't sound too sensible, there is no reason to suggest that 'onomy and 'ology are still not confused by many.

Of course it could also have been a prank by a serious student who hadn't prepared for his test or it could also have been an attempt to put Astrology 'in it's place.'

It also reminds me of that comment made by Isaac Newton when taken to task about his interest in Astrology. Newton is reputed to have said something like "The difference between us Sir, is that I have studied it and you have not!"

The more we know the less we know or the more we know that we don't know. Time to take a breath. Loved your article, thanks.

Cheers now