The Astronomical Observatories of Jai Singh c15.s1.t1.3

c15.s1.t1.3

In the Rig Veda two asterisms only are mentioned, Maghā and Phalguni; but in later Vedic texts (*e.g.*, A.V., XIX, 7, 1-5) a complete list of the 28 *nakshatras* or asterisms is given. This list is headed by *Krittikās* or the Pleiades, which marked, it is believed, the vernal equinox of the Vedic year; and this is a foundation, although not a very secure one, for Vedic chronology.¹