Some may find it easy to confuse Astronomy and Astrology.

At one time, these two words actually were synonymous (that is, astronomy once meant what astrology means today), but they have since moved apart from each other.

In current use, astronomy is concerned with “the study of objects and matter outside the earth's atmosphere,” while astrology is the purported divination of how stars and planets influence our lives.

Astronomy and Astrology are two distinct fields, though they share historical roots. Here’s how they differ:

Astronomy

• Definition: The scientific study of celestial objects (like stars, planets, comets, and galaxies), the universe as a whole, and the physical laws that govern them.
• Focus: It focuses on understanding the origin, evolution, and behavior of celestial bodies through observation, experimentation, and mathematical analysis.
• Branches: Includes astrophysics, cosmology, planetary science, etc.
• Methods: Uses telescopes, satellites, and complex calculations to study the universe.
• Purpose: Seeks factual, evidence-based explanations of cosmic phenomena.
• Example: Studying the composition of Mars, calculating the distance between stars, or observing black holes.

Astrology

• Definition: A belief system that suggests a connection between the positions of celestial bodies and events on Earth, especially human life and personality.
• Focus: It interprets how planetary movements influence personal traits, emotions, and future events.
• Branches: Includes Vedic astrology, Western astrology, Chinese astrology, etc.
• Methods: Uses birth charts (Kundali), zodiac signs, dashas, and transits based on planetary positions at the time of birth.
• Purpose: Offers insights into life paths, relationships, career prospects, and more.
• Example: Predicting how Mercury retrograde might affect communication or how a specific Dasha period influences someone’s life.