Ecliptic vs Equator

The ecliptic  (which appears tilted in the picture) is orientated toward the Milky Way galaxy and is considered the Galactic Horizon.  The Zodiac follows the ecliptic.  You should see the familiar constellations of the zodiac along that line.    The Equator (which appears level in the picture) is tilted with respect to the Milky Way about 23 degrees.  The Celestial Equator is just the earth’s equator extended into space.  You should see the familiar constellation Orion on the Equator.  This constellation is most easily recognizable because of the fact that it is on the Celestial Equator and we can see it readily from planet earth.