Astraea is the Latinized form of the Greek name Astraia (Ἀστραία), derived from the Greek word ἀστήρ (aster) meaning "star". In Greek mythology, Astraea was the virgin goddess of justice and innocence. She is distinct from Asteria, the goddess of stars and daughter of Coeus and Phoebe. Astraea is often closely associated with another justice goddess, Dike, the daughter of Zeus and Themis.Etymology and Celestial SignificanceAs her name suggests—literally "starry" or "star-like"—Astraea is intimately connected with the heavens. After the wickedness of humanity grew too great during the Iron Age, she abandoned the earth and ascended to the sky, becoming the constellation Virgo. The constellation's association with a goddess of justice and purity appears in various traditions; for instance, the Greeks themselves linked Virgo to multiple goddesses including Astraea, Dike, and Demeter.Cultural References and LegacyAstraea's name has been revived in modern times, particularly in astronomy. The main-belt asteroid 5 Astraea, discovered in 1845, bears her name. Her myth of retreating from a corrupt world also resonated during the Renaissance, where she was sometimes invoked as a symbol of returning justice. In contemporary usage, Ana-Maria (English forms such as Aster and Astra are related via the starry root, making names borne of Astraea—like Astra, Astrid, and Estelle—part of a broader etymological family circling the image of stars.Meaning: "Star" (Greek)Origin: Ancient Greek religion and mythologyType: Given name (female)Usage: English, Greek (via derivative forms)