What do we call a group of stars that form recognizable patterns in the night sky?

A group of stars that form recognizable patterns in the night sky is called a constellation. Constellations are formed by stars that are not necessarily close to each other in space but appear to be grouped together when viewed from Earth. They have been used for centuries in navigation and storytelling, often representing mythological figures, animals, or objects. The patterns created by these stars can help observers identify and navigate the night sky.

In contrast, a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse are astronomical events that involve the positioning of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, where one celestial body moves into the shadow of another. While phases of the Moon refer to the different appearances of the Moon as it orbits Earth, they do not involve a grouping of stars. Therefore, the term that specifically describes a group of stars forming patterns is constellation.