Uttara Phalguni

Uttara Phalguni, the 12th Nakshatra, as drawn in historical temples.

Nakshatras 10, 11 and 12 in the constellation Leo, as animated GIF to show where the historical images were placed (WGSN 2025). Uttara Phalguni is the left one.

... is an Indian name, used by the Indian Vedic tradition. Most of these names are roughly 3000 years old. They pre-date Hinduism but were taken over by it.

Etymology and History

Origin of Constellation

The historical depiction clearly shows four stars, but from later coordinates it is only certain that Denebola (β Leonis) is one of them or in the area. As Nakshatras were preferably formed of faint stars, ν, ο, and β Virginis could be a fitting match, and the Coma Berenices star cluster also forms a great (recognizable) pattern above the bright star Denebola while itself consisting of only faint stars. Alternatively, it could be the larger group of ε, γ, β Vir plus Denebola, as this group forms a pattern in the sky that matches the quadrilateral drawn in temples.

In conclusion: we have no idea what exactly is meant by this nakshatra asterism. We only know that it is in the vicinity of Denebola.

Mythology

mnemonic tales and cultural significance

References

• References (general)