Nakshtra

Now we know that Rashi (division of moving group of stars) consist of 360 degrees and divided in 12 equal parts, each 30-degree. Again the same 360-degree Rashi (division of moving group of stars) band is divided into 27 equal imaginary zones, called Nakshtar (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) and each 13-degree and 20 minute. Further each Nakshtar (constellations of fixed stars) is divided into four equal quarters called Padas, each 3-degree and 20 minute. In other words this means that now 360-degree band has been divided into 108 equal portions. That’s why number 108 has a special significance in Indian worship.

Nakshtra and Rashi

Now we can superimpose the Rashi (division of moving group of stars) on Nakshtar (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) you will find that each Rashi (division of moving group of stars) has approximately 2.33 Nakshtar (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) and each Nakshtar (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) is divided into four Padas. Nakshtar (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) Ashivini starts from Rashi (division of moving group of stars) Aries and Nakshtar (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) Revati ends and coincides with Rashi (division of moving group of stars) Pisces. Refer to following table for Nakshra (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) and Rashi (division of moving group of stars) relationship –

First five lines will be read as that Mesha (Aries) contains Nakshra (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) Ashvini, Bharani and ¼ of Kritika. Vrishaba (Taurus) contains Nakshra (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) ¾ Kritika, Rohini and Mrigashira ½ and so on. Refer to fig 3.15 : Rashis and Nakshtras.

Nakshtras and Grahas

Twenty-seven Nakshtras (asterisms - constellations of fixed stars) are –