People often confuse astronomy and astrology, as both words sound similar and deal with many of the same topics. Many past astronomers also took part in the other discipline and vice versa. However, the two are substantially different, especially in their modern forms. Astrology is generally considered a pseudoscience that is invalid for most purposes, and astronomy is a scholarly discipline that makes important discoveries even now.
Astrology originated in ancient history when people became fascinated by the formations that stars seemed to create. It is the belief that the various celestial bodies can affect current and future events on Earth in an observable manner. The Zodiac is likely the most well-known astrological concept, with horoscopes representing the idea that being born under a specific constellation will shape a person’s character and actions.
Astronomy, on the other hand, is more concerned with the study of these celestial objects, along with many others that we cannot see, as they are. Instead of wondering about the meaning of the Moon’s phases as astrologists might, astronomers learned why Earth’s satellite goes through these phases. Thanks to astronomers, humanity now knows many facts about other planets and stars that are critical for endeavors such as space travel.
Overall, astronomy and astrology were initially similar but diverged as better tools became available. Astrology, formerly regarded as a scholarly discipline, was debunked due to new findings and became a pseudoscience. However, due to its mystical nature, it still appeals to many people. Meanwhile, astronomy remains a proper and highly useful science that enabled achievements such as the moon landing. One should not confuse the two or conflate their findings and claims.