The large constellations Hydra, Virgo and Ursa Major as seen in the sky of New York approaching 10 p.m. local time on June 7, 2022. (Image credit: Starry Night ) ...

Some constellations hold other identifiable shapes formed by stars, called asterisms. Seven bright stars within the constellation Ursa Major form what may be the most renowned asterism through the ...

The seven brightest stars of the constellation Ursa Major, the Great Bear, form this well-known asterism which is known as the Big Dipper. Photograph by Jamie Cooper.

Astro Bob: Meet Ursa Major — the only bear that can stand on its tail By 8 p.m. in mid-February, the Big Dipper asterism and constellation Ursa Major are back in view in the northeastern sky.

These seven bright stars form the center of the constellation Ursa Major — Latin for "greater bear." The Big Dipper is in the northern sky, and around the world it is associated with the north.

In this show, Michael profiles Ursa Major. After you listen, e-mail us here and let us know what you think. ... Additional constellation observing tools from Astronomy magazine.

When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. The stars of the Ursa Major constellation can be used to find its smaller sibling, Ursa Minor ...