The Advantages of Star Patterns

Constellations

• Star patterns in the sky are known as constellations, of which there are 88. These patterns are advantageous for understanding navigation, history and mysticism. For thousands of years, human beings have been fascinated by the formation of stars. Consequently, there is a wealth of Greek mythology, Egyptian legends and myths and predictions, such as those by Nostradamus, that provide insight into different mindsets and cultures. Furthermore, the differing star patterns provide the basic meaning underlying horoscopes which many people value. On a more practical level, constellations, such as the Southern Cross, enable navigation.

Interior Decoration

• Star patterns come in numerous forms and can be used in interior decoration. Stencils, stickers, wallpaper and murals can consist of different star patterns and add an extra dimension within a home. For example, the ceiling of a child's bedroom can be decorated with glow in the dark paint. Cushions or fabrics may also use star patterns, such as curtains in a bedroom. Star patterns can be symmetrical or random in nature and offer a wide variety of choice for individuals.

Geometric Patterns

• Geometry is an area of mathematics concerned with pattern, dimension and shape. Star patterns provide a body of material for analysis using mathematics in this area. For example, 'perfect stars' are those that can drawn perfectly using specific equations of geometry. From one star with three points, you can find the dimensions of a six-, 12- or 24-pointed star, as explained by Pythagoras. Building upon the 'perfect star' principle, mathematicians can create other patterns. Tiling is an example of this where a sequence of pentagons form around a basic five-pointed star.

Religion

• Star patterns have been used in a number of religious settings. The Islamic tradition takes advantage of stars, by using sequences of them to create strong geometric patterns on rugs, artwork and pottery. Christianity uses two interlocking triangles to create the Star of Creation and Judaism uses the six-pointed Star of David. Also, the patterns of the stars were the focal point of the Egyptian's Star Religion. Therefore, in a religion sense, star patterns have been used to provide iconic symbols.