One part of Ursa major consists of seven stars. This is also called as big dipper or Vrihat Saptarshi.
This constellation helps to locate the Pole star. We can easily spot this constellation.

Ursa Major

Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, is one of the most recognizable constellations in the night sky. It is visible in the northern hemisphere and has been used by various cultures throughout history for navigation and storytelling. Here are some key points about Ursa Major:

Origin of the Name
- The name Ursa Major is Latin for "greater bear." It is derived from the Greek mythological story of Callisto, a beautiful nymph who was transformed into a bear by the goddess Hera.
- The name Ursa Major is also associated with the fact that the constellation appears to resemble a bear, with the stars forming the body, head, and tail of the bear.

Location and Visibility
- Ursa Major can be easily identified in the night sky due to its distinctive shape. It is located near the north celestial pole, making it visible year-round in the northern hemisphere.
- The constellation is circumpolar, meaning it never sets below the horizon. This makes it visible throughout the night during all seasons.

Stars and Asterisms
- Ursa Major is home to several bright stars, including the seven stars that form the Big Dipper or Plough asterism. These stars are named Dubhe, Merak, Phecda, Megrez, Alioth, Mizar, and Alkaid.
- The Big Dipper is one of the most famous asterisms and is often used to locate other stars and constellations. It is formed by the stars in the handle and bowl shape of the Ursa Major constellation.

Significance in Culture
- Ursa Major has been recognized and named by different cultures throughout history. In Greek mythology, it is associated with the story of Zeus, Callisto, and their son Arcas.
- The constellation has also been used for navigation purposes. The North Star, Polaris, is located near Ursa Major, and its position relative to the constellation can help determine the direction of north.

Conclusion
Ursa Major is a prominent constellation in the night sky, known for its distinctive shape and the famous Big Dipper asterism. It has been significant in various cultures and is used for navigation and storytelling. Its visibility throughout the year makes it a popular object of observation for stargazers and astronomers.