Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, is one of the most recognizable constellations in the northern hemisphere. It contains several bright stars, including the famous Big Dipper asterism. Ursa Major is circumpolar, meaning it is visible year-round in the northern hemisphere, and it played an important role in many ancient cultures, from the Greeks to the Native Americans.


Cassiopeia is another prominent constellation in the northern hemisphere. It is named after the queen of Ethiopia in Greek mythology and is easily recognizable for its distinctive "W" shape. Cassiopeia is also circumpolar, and it can be seen year-round in the northern hemisphere. It contains several notable stars, including Ruchbah and Schedar.




Crux, also known as the Southern Cross, is one of the most famous constellations in the southern hemisphere. It is easily recognizable for its distinctive shape, which resembles a cross. Crux was used for navigation by sailors in the southern hemisphere for centuries, and it played an important role in many indigenous cultures as well. It contains several bright stars, including Acrux and Mimosa.


Centaurus is another prominent constellation in the southern hemisphere. It is named after the centaur of Greek mythology and contains several notable stars, including Alpha Centauri, which is the closest star system to Earth. Centaurus is also home to several interesting deep-sky objects, including the Omega Centauri globular cluster.

Overall, these four constellations represent some of the most recognizable and important features of the night sky in both the northern and southern hemispheres. Whether you are an amateur astronomer or simply enjoy stargazing, these constellations are sure to provide endless fascination and wonder.

The five northern constellations visible from most locations north of the equator throughout the year are Cassiopeia, Cepheus, Draco, Ursa Major, and Ursa Minor. The three southern circumpolar constellations visible from most locations in the southern hemisphere are Carina, Centaurus, and Crux.