Constellation Ursa Minor

‍Ursa Minor,⁣ also known‌ as the “Little Bear” or “Little Dipper,” is ​a constellation visible in the night sky of the Northern Hemisphere.⁢ It is one⁢ of the⁢ 48 constellations listed by the 2nd-century astronomer Ptolemy and remains one of the most recognized patterns of⁢ stars in the sky.

Ursa Minor is​ notable for hosting Polaris, the North ​Star, which marks ⁤the current northern celestial pole. Polaris holds its ‍position due to its alignment with the Earth’s rotation axis and is a valuable navigational tool ⁤since it can assist in determining true north.

⁤The primary stars‌ of Ursa Minor form a shape resembling a dipper or a ladle, hence its alternative ‍name, Little Dipper. The constellation is composed of seven main‍ stars, with Polaris being the brightest among them. The other stars include ⁣Kochab, Pherkad, ⁤Yildun, Epsilon Ursae Minoris, Zeta Ursae Minoris, ​and Eta Ursae Minoris.

According ‌to Greek mythology, Ursa Minor represents⁤ a bear that was once larger but was transformed into its small form by the gods. It is said the transformation occurred to prevent the bear‍ from challenging Ursa Major, ‍the Great Bear.

‍”Ursa Minor, with the North Star⁤ at its helm,‍ has guided countless sailors and explorers throughout history.”

Image source: NASA

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