Astronomy vs. Astrology

Astronomy

Examines the physical and chemical properties, motions, and origins of celestial objects

Astrology

Belief that movement of stars can be interpreted and have influence on human traits and behaviors

Zodiac

A belt of the sky extending 8-9 degrees on each of the sun’s path - divided into 12 segments, linked to a constellation

Ecliptic

Apparent yearly path of sun in the sky-zodiac constellations are on ecliptic. Tilted at 23.5 degrees

Origins

Egyptians, Babylonians, Chinese, Indian cultures all have astrology. They would track the stars and tie them to important events

Egyptians

The first visible appearance of Sirius before dawn marked the yearly flooding of the Nile. Based their whole calendar on this. Sirius also guided Pharoah into afterlife

Monument alignment

Egyptian pyramids are aligned with Orion’s belt. Chaco canyon (NMexico) aligned with equinox and solstice. Stonehenge aligned with solstices- signified changes. Chicken Itza in mexico- serpents

Modern times

Nancy Regan, Francois Mitterrand (president of France in 80-90), Nazi officers