Big Dipper

Big Dipper
Big Dipper map

The Plough, also known as the Big Dipper or the Saptarishi (after the seven rishis), is an asterism of seven stars that has been recognized as a distinct grouping in many cultures from time immemorial. The component stars are the seven brightest of the formal constellation Ursa Major.

The Plough is significant because the North Star (Polaris), the current northern pole star on Earth, can be found using it. Polaris is part of the "Little Dipper", Ursa Minor.

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Names and lore

Asia