Ursa Major is circumpolar for northern hemisphere observers.

Below the constellation is represented ‘right-side up’ as seen in mid-summer, however it may be too near the horizon at this time of year to study adequately.

In winter it'll be seen upside down, much higher in the skies.

Not only is the 'Big Dipper' a familiar sight in northern skies, but the asterism also serves as a convenient pointer to a number of other stars.

Ursa Major contains several notable binaries here, as well as a number of fine deep sky objects which, if not fully appreciated, can at least be found in binoculars.

Click on alpha to begin.