Australian flags are recognized by the national flag's dark blue field, with the Union Jack in the upper-left corner, the Commonwealth Star beneath it, and the Southern Cross constellation on the right. The Union Jack reflects Australia's historical ties to Britain. The seven-pointed Commonwealth Star represents the six states and the territories collectively, while the Southern Cross is a distinctive constellation visible in the southern hemisphere. Its five white stars have different numbers of points, reflecting their positions in the constellation. Together, these elements connect Australia's political history, federation and place in the southern sky.