Quick Answer
Using the Big Dipper to locate Polaris requires a basic understanding of the night sky and the position of the two constellations. Find the Big Dipper and locate the two stars at the end of the "bowl," Dubhe and Merak, which point towards Polaris.
Finding the Big Dipper
To locate the Big Dipper, look for a large ladle-shaped asterism in the northern sky, containing seven bright stars. In the United States, it’s visible in late spring and summer on clear nights. The Big Dipper is part of the constellation Ursa Major, and its stars are relatively bright, making it easy to spot.
Locating Polaris
Using the Big Dipper as a guide, locate the two bright stars at the end of the “bowl,” Dubhe and Merak. These stars are approximately 11.3 and 9.4 magnitude, respectively. From these stars, draw an imaginary line through the sky, moving towards the north, and continue for about five times the distance between the two stars. This line will pass near Polaris, which is an 8.7-magnitude star. Polaris is the bright, steady light at the end of this line.
Using Polaris for Navigation
Once you’ve located Polaris, you can use it to determine your direction. Since Polaris is almost aligned with the Earth’s axis, it remains stationary in the night sky while the other stars appear to rotate around it. By locating Polaris, you can determine north with a high degree of accuracy. This is especially useful for navigation, as it allows you to orient yourself in the wilderness and find your way back to civilization.
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