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Mark Fisher
1999-2008
The Plough
The Big Dipper
Map of the Plough
Genitive
  Ursae Majoris
Abbreviation
  UMa
Right Ascension
  11h02 to 13h48
Declination
  +49° 18' to +61° 45'
Area (sq deg)
  383
Brightest Star
  Alioth
Optimum Visibility
  March/April
  Usually visible from
  northern latitudes
 A group of seven prominent stars in Ursa Major (from left to right: Benetnash, Mizar, Alioth, Megrez, Phekda, Merak and Dubhe). Together, they form probably the most recognisable star group in the sky. Seen from northern latitudes, the Plough never sets, but swings slowly around the Pole Star every night of the year.
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