An asterism is an observed pattern or group of stars in the sky. Asterisms can be any identified pattern or group of stars, and therefore are a more general concept than the 88 formally defined constellations. Constellations are based on asterisms, but unlike asterisms, constellations outline and today completely divide the sky and all its celestial objects into regions around their central asterisms. For example, the asterism known as the Big Dipper comprises the seven brightest stars in the constellation Ursa Major. Another is the asterism of the Southern Cross, within the constellation of Crux.
A picture of stars, with a group of appearingly bright blue and white stars. The bright stars together are identified as the asterism Coathanger resembling a coathanger, in the constellation Vulpecula.
Three Leaps of the Gazelle asterism
The "Teapot" asterism in Sagittarius. The Milky Way appears as "steam" coming from the spout.
The "37" or "LE" of NGC 2169, in Orion. It is visible with binoculars.
Orion is a constellation which is visible from most parts of the world. As well as being one of the 88 modern constellations, it was one of the 48 constellations listed by the 2nd-century astronomer Ptolemy. It is named for a hunter in Greek mythology.
The constellation of Orion, as it can be seen by the naked eye. Lines have been drawn.
Orion as depicted in Urania's Mirror, a set of star chart cards published in London c. 1825
This view brings out many fainter features, such as Barnard's Loop.