Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

What is the current name for the star used to determine astronomic north?

1. Vega

2. Polaris

3. Antares

4. Proxima Centauri

The correct answer is: Polaris

The star used to determine astronomic north is known as Polaris. This star, also referred to as the North Star, is located nearly directly above the North Pole. Its position in the night sky remains relatively fixed, which makes it an invaluable reference point for navigation and celestial navigation. Polaris is part of the constellation Ursa Minor, and because of its alignment with the Earth's rotational axis, it points very close to true north. This stability is why Polaris has been used for centuries by navigators and astronomers to find north in the northern celestial hemisphere. In contrast, other stars mentioned, such as Vega, Antares, and Proxima Centauri, do not maintain this fixed position relative to the Earth's axis, making them less useful for determining direction in the night sky.