Asterism 48 - City; Civilization
We became human, no longer nomadic hominids, when we built our first
villages (Cities). Cities became the base for residence, industry,
and commerce. Capable of structuring our environment, we distanced
ourselves from the vagaries of nature. As humankind concentrated into
Cities, learning, wealth, and commerce accelerated. The power of the
City is so strong that people, knowing they will face grinding poverty and
overcrowding, still willingly migrate from countrysides to their nearest
metropolis. We have not yet seen the end of urban migration.
18 stars – 9 from Orion, 7 from Lepus, 1 from Erinadus, and 1 from
Monoceros.
Right Ascension = 05h36m
Declination = -9.9 degrees
The bright star on the road entering the City is Rigel, Beta Orion,
magnitude 0.11 (Orion’s knee, from the northern hemisphere). His
other knee, Saiph, Kappa Orion, magnitude 2.05, is the roof corner of the
building with the tallest antenna. The 3 stars of Orion’s belt (Alnilam,
Alnitak, and Mintaka) are the diagonal roof of the northernmost building.
The equator passes through Mintaka.
Copyright © 2004-2009, Joseph Schreiner
