Nakshatra refers to the 27 divisions of the sky that the Moon passes through during its monthly orbit around the Earth. Each nakshatra spans 13°20' of the ecliptic. The system dates back to the Vedic period (before 1500 BCE) and is fundamental to Hindu astrology (Jyotish), calendar (Panchang), and muhurat (auspicious timing). The 27 nakshatras are: Ashwini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, Mrigashira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Ashlesha, Magha, Purva Phalguni, Uttara Phalguni, Hasta, Chitra, Swati, Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha, Mula, Purva Ashadha, Uttara Ashadha, Shravana, Dhanishta, Shatabhisha, Purva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada, and Revati. Each nakshatra has a ruling deity, a planetary lord, and specific qualities that influence activities undertaken during that time. A person's birth nakshatra (Janma Nakshatra) is considered important for determining personality, compatibility, and life path.