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How to Find the Big Dipper in the Night Sky

Learning how to locate the Big Dipper in the night sky, will enable you to find your way in the darkness. The Big Dipper belongs to the Ursa Major constellation and is often one of the most recognized constellations in the sky. The seven stars in the Big Dipper are the brightest stars in Ursa Major. The Big Dipper can be viewed year round as it rotates around the North Star.

Instructions

- 1
  Go outside after sunset. Travel to a location that gives you a clear view of the night sky. Avoid locations that contain tall trees, buildings, or too much lighting. You will be able to see the sky better outside the city.
- 2
  
  Put a blanket on the ground and relax as you look up and search for the Big Dipper.
  
  Face the northern horizon. Look above the north horizon and allow your gaze to sweep across the sky. Search for seven stars that will be in the formation of a ladle.
- 3
  Be aware that the North Star may appear upside down because it rotates around the North Star at night and throughout the seasons. Focus on the shape of the Big Dipper as you let your gaze sweep over the sky.
- 4
  Look for the Big Dipper's handle in the sky. Your gaze should follow the handle to the full form of the Big Dipper. Count the number of stars in the Big Dipper to make certain that you are viewing the correct constellation. When you see the seven stars in the ladle shape, you have found the Big Dipper.

Astronomy