We’ve been seeing this confusion crop up on a semi-regular basis, so here we go:
Astronomy is the study of the physical universe, including the stars and other celestial bodies therein. Scientists develop ideas based on direct observation; for phenomena that can’t yet be observed, there are predictable mathematical models that form a very good basis for what they think is happening. Results are reproducible and objective. Our college offers classes on this.
Astronomy common keywords: telescope, nebula, galaxy, black hole, quasars, pulsars, relativity, electromagnetic radiation, cosmic dust, comets, asteroids, satellites, elements (plutonium, iridium, iron, hydrogen, carbon, and most of the rest of the periodic table), Big Bang Theory. “Jupiter is a gas giant.”
Related fields: physics, mathematics, chemistry, engineering
Astrology is the interpretation of stars and other celestial bodies for how their positions affect human personality and destiny. Results are often believed or reinforced through confirmation bias rather than empirical accuracy. Our college does not offer classes on this (but your librarians will sometimes make jokes based in astrology).
Astrology common keywords: horoscope, zodiac, Scorprio (and Taurus, Aries, Pisces, and so on), meaning, compatibility, love, money, personality, fate, elements (earth, air, fire, water), future, birth chart. “Jupiter is a a planet of good fortune.”
Related fields: tarot, reading crystal balls and tea leaves, healing crystals
What about the zodiac? We most often hear this term in relation to astrology and horoscopes, but it’s also used in astronomy. Your star sign? It’s also a constellation. The signs of the zodiac are simply those along the ecliptic. There are, of course, many other terms that overlap, beyond the names of the planets, but may be used in very different ways (like “energy”).
turnnoffyourmind
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theartofmadeline
snowghoul
baratheonpilled
