Astronomy or astrology? A quiz of science and stars

A circular chart with the 12 zodiac signs in white is against a night sky background full of stars

The zodiac signs feature heavily in the world of astrology and astronomy. (Image credit: sarayut Thaneerat/Getty Images)

From ancient civilizations charting the stars to modern-day horoscopes guiding daily decisions, our relationship with the cosmos is as complex as it is enduring. But how well do you really know the difference between astronomy—the study of celestial objects and phenomena—and astrology, the belief that those same objects influence human behavior?

Astronomy and astrology may share the same canvas—the sky—but they paint vastly different pictures. One relies on physics, mathematics, and observation; the other on archetypes, intuition, and symbolism. Yet both have shaped cultures, calendars, and conversations for centuries.

Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a horoscope devotee, this challenge will stretch your cosmic knowledge across both realms.

Try it out below and see how well you score!

Kenna Hughes-Castleberry is the Content Manager at Space.com. Formerly, she was the Science Communicator at JILA, a physics research institute. Kenna is also a freelance science journalist. Her beats include quantum technology, AI, animal intelligence, corvids, and cephalopods.

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