Ursa Minor (The Little Bear)

The northern polar constellation, whose tail ends at Polaris.

Core Principles & Analysis

• Polaris stands within a fraction of a degree of the north celestial pole, making it the pivot of every northern night.
• Its seven main stars form the Little Dipper, whose handle ends at Polaris; the Big Dipper's pointers lead to it.
• It is one of Ptolemy's 48 constellations, though ancient authors knew it simply as the little bear's wagon.

Specifications & Metrics

• BRIGHTEST STAR: Polaris (α UMi)
• HEMISPHERE: Northern
• BEST VIEWED: June