Polaris and Circumpolar Constellations

These flashcards cover key concepts about Polaris, its significance in navigating the night sky, and information on circumpolar constellations and related phenomena.

What is Polaris known for?

Polaris is the closest star to our North Celestial Pole and does not appear to move in the sky.

How do you locate Polaris?

You can use your phone's compass to find North, then measure 30 degrees up using your fist.

What are circumpolar constellations?

Circumpolar constellations are those that rotate directly around Polaris and are always visible at some point in the night.

Which constellations are considered circumpolar from the northern hemisphere?

Ursa Major, Ursa Minor, Draco, Cassiopeia, and Cepheus are examples of circumpolar constellations.

What is the significance of the Big Dipper in locating Polaris?

You can find Polaris by making a straight line extending from the two bright stars at the front of the Big Dipper.

Why isn't Polaris considered a super-bright star?

Polaris has a brightness magnitude that is not exceptionally high, making it less remarkable than other bright stars.

What are some interesting objects to observe in the circumpolar constellations?

Objects like the Double Cluster, Andromeda Galaxy, and the Pleiades are interesting to observe.

What is Mizar & Alcor?

They are a naked-eye double star system where Mizar itself is also a double star.

How can you find the Double Cluster?

You locate it by using the stars in Cassiopeia and Perseus as reference points.

What does the brightness of the stars listed next to Polaris indicate?

The numerals represent the apparent magnitude of stars, which indicates their brightness as seen from Earth.