Answer to Question #162986 in Astronomy | Astrophysics for SAmanta Ariel

Question

Where in the night sky can you observe the famous double star system Mizar and Alcor?

Answer 1

Mizar and Alcor belong to the constellation of Ursa Major. These stars are situated in the handle of the asterism called Big Dipper. Mizar is a quite bright star and Alcor is significantly fainter, but it also can be seen by an unaided eye. Due to the declination of approximately 55° these stars are readily visible in Northern hemisphere and for latitudes greater than 35° these stars are always above the horizon in 35° from the Northern celestial pole.