Sinistra

[Cindy C.]

No: HPFGUIDX 29340

Dave Hardenbrook wrote:
> 
> I can't even figure exactly how astronomy fits into magic.  It can't
> be astrology -- That's Trelawney's jurisdiction.

Ummm.  Well, astronomy helps you figure out the phases of the moon 
(helpful for avoiding werewolves, I suppose).  I think it also 
includes study of things like sun spots, which might affect magic.  
I'm getting a little out of my field (actually *a lot* out of my 
field), but sun spots affect certain muggle equipment (radar?), and 
could conceivably affect Hogwarts, because we know that those devices 
don't work at Hogwarts.  

Also, the centaurs are, according to Hagrid, "star gazers."  So there 
must be some value in knowing one's constellations.  Oh, and I guess 
when one is riding a broom or flying motorcyle, one could reliably 
use the stars to navigate.

Cindy (hoping someone will gently correct her if she has 
mischaracterized astronomy)