How do the constellations change over time?

Subject: How do the constellations change over time?

Date: Tue Apr 25 07:14:26 2000
Posted by Gordon Morrison
Grade level: grad (non-science) School: No school entered.
City: Basingstoke State/Province: Hampshire Country: UK
Area of science: Astronomy
ID: 956664866.As

Message:


I know that the stars in our galaxy orbit around the centre. How does this 
motion affect the positions of the stars and the configuration of the 
constellations, and how long would it take for this movement to become 
noticable? For instance, would a time-traveller recognise any 
constellations if he arrived on Earth 30,000 years ago? (The reason I 
specifically asked about 30,000 years is I'm writing a story about time-
travel, and I'd like to get my facts right, if possible) Thanks!

Re: How do the constellations change over time?

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