Polaris is a prominent constellation in the northern sky. It’s a relatively small, relatively faint constellation, located very far north of our familiar constellations. It is, simply put, a star that holds a significant position within the celestial map.

The recognizable identity of Polaris derives primarily from its location relative to Sirius. Sirius, a much brighter star in the sky, is often associated with Polaris due to its relatively low position in relation to the southern celestial sphere, while Polaris maintains its consistent, reliable position. Its distinctive arrangement results in a clear, stable point of reference when surveyed. It has a relatively low visual magnitude of 1.97, placing it consistently in the relatively dim reaches of the night’s sky.

Observers might appreciate Polaris’s symbolic significance as a guiding beacon or direction. Historically, it has been linked to navigation and storytelling within certain cultures, representing a reliable compass and a steady point to follow. Given its consistent appearance throughout the night, it consistently acts as a landmark point for exploration and planning.

How to see it

Polaris has a visual magnitude of about 1.97: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.

Sky position

Equatorial coordinates for Polaris: right ascension 2h 31m 47s, declination +89° 15′ 51″ (J2000), on the celestial sphere.

Catalog context

Polaris. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 1Alp UMi, HIP 11767, HD 8890, Gaia DR3 HYG-HIP-11767.

Catalog identifiers

Gaia

Gaia DR3 HYG-HIP-11767

HIP

11767

HD

8890

gaia_dr3

HYG-HIP-11767

Bayer / Flamsteed

1Alp UMi

Also known as

• 1Alp UMi
• Gaia DR3 TOP 5M HYG-HIP-11767
• HD 8890
• HIP 11767
• HYG-HIP-11767

Observed properties

Visual magnitude

1.97