Ad astra is a Latin phrase meaning "to the stars". The phrase has origins with Virgil, who wrote in his Aeneid: "sic itur ad astra" ('thus one journeys to the stars') and "opta ardua pennis astra sequi" ('desire to pursue the high[/hard to reach] stars on wings'). Another origin is Seneca the Younger, who wrote in Hercules: "non est ad astra mollis e terris via" ('there is no easy way from the earth to the stars').

Etymology

Ad is a Latin preposition expressing direction toward in space or time (e.g. ad nauseam, ad infinitum, ad hoc, ad libidem, ad valorem, ad hominem). It is also used as a prefix in Latin word formation. Astra is the accusative plural form of the Latin word astrum 'star' (from Ancient Greek ἄστρον astron 'star', from Proto-Indo-European *h₂ster-).

Mottos

Ad astra is used as, or as part of, the motto of many organizations, most prominently, air forces. It has also been adopted as a proper name for various unrelated things (publications, bands, video games, etc.). It likewise sees general use as a popular Latin tag.

Ad astra

Ad astra per alas porci

"To the stars on the wings of a pig"

Ad astra per aspera

"To the stars through difficulties;" "a rough road leads to the stars;" or "Through hardships, to the stars."

De profundis ad astra

"From the depths to the stars."

Per ardua ad astra

"Through adversity to the stars" or "Through struggle to the stars."

Per aspera ad astra

"Through hardships to the stars" or "To the stars through difficulties."

Per audacia ad astra

"Through boldness to the stars."

Quam celerrime ad astra

"speedily to the stars."

Sic itur ad astra

"Thus one goes to the stars." "Such is the pathway to the stars." "Reach for the stars."

Hinc itur ad astra

"From here the way leads to the stars"

Other uses

Literature

Music

Art

Film and television

Computer games