Ursa Major

Ursa Major, commonly known as the Great Bear, is a prominent and easily identifiable constellation in the northern hemisphere. Its distinctive ladle or saucepan shape is formed by seven bright stars. This celestial arrangement is visible throughout the year and remains circumpolar, never dipping below the horizon for observers in the northern hemisphere.

Stars

The seven principal stars that constitute the asterism include Dubhe, Merak, Phecda, Megrez, Alioth, Mizar, and Alkaid (also known as Benetnash or Eta Ursae Majoris). Notably, Mizar is a visual double star, and nearby Alcor is often observed as well.

History

The mythology associated with Ursa Major stems from Greek lore, linking it to the tale of Callisto, a nymph transformed into a bear by the goddess Artemis. The constellation itself is a representation of Callisto, and its placement in the night sky is intricately connected to the myth of Zeus and Callisto.

Navigation

The two outer stars of the ladle point towards the North Star (Polaris), aiding travelers in determining the cardinal direction of north.

Galaxies

Ursa Major hosts several notable galaxies, such as the Ursa Major Cluster, which includes renowned celestial objects like Messier 81 and Messier 82.