Astronomy and astrology are two words that sound very much alike and the fact that they are also both very much to do with stars and planets means that they become very much confused in people’s minds. However, this means one could very easily give the other a bad name.
So just what is the difference? Well, astronomy is about using telescopes to learn more about the universe we live in whilst astrology is something that gives hope and encouragement to many and mild amusement to others whilst having no founding in either fact or even its own accuracy. The original foundations for astrology were formed using calculations that were actually wrong and despite a realisation many years down the line, nothing has been done to remedy these inaccuracies.
The idea of trying to sum up someone’s whole personality or predict their future using astrology is absurd when you really think about it. It is effectively stating that there are only 12 types of people and the descriptions given are so vague that they could apply to anyone, and those reading such descriptions tend to only pick out the parts relevant to them.
So how much does astronomy differ? Well, using astronomical telescopes to study the galaxy and beyond is a science and whilst it may not be as frivolous and fun as astrology, it is far more interesting, rewarding and worthwhile, giving us a better view of our place within our solar system and the universe as opposed to some generic information and a few lies for good measure.
Ultimately, astronomy can be a fun little pastime so long as you are aware that it is far more myth than magic, superstition and not ‘super way to plan your life,’ whilst getting out those astronomical telescopes to understand more about celestial bodies will always not only be fun, but also extremely informative too.