The Big Dipper (Asterism)

The Big Dipper is an asterism in the constellation Ursa Major. Resembling a large ladle or dipping spoon, it is without doubt the most recognisable asterism in the night sky at northern latitudes. This is partly because the stars within it are of magnitude 2.5 or lower but also because Ursa Major is circumpolar so it is always visible all year round from the northern hemisphere.

The same seven stars also form the asterism The Plough and The Saucepan.