What is the name of the figure formed by the seven brightest stars in the constellation Ursa Minor, one of which is Polaris, the North Star?

The seven brightest stars within the constellation Ursa Minor (the Little Bear) form a very famous and recognizable shape. This pattern is not a constellation itself, but an asterism—a simple, popular pattern of stars within a larger constellation. Because its shape resembles a ladle or a water scoop with a long handle, it has been known for centuries as the Little Dipper. The star at the very tip of the Dipper's handle is Polaris, which is famous for being our current North Star.

This asterism is often discussed in relation to its larger, brighter, and more easily spotted counterpart, the Big Dipper, which is an asterism within the constellation Ursa Major (the Great (Review) Bear). While the Big Dipper is one of the most well-known patterns in the night sky, the Little Dipper is arguably more important for navigation.

The significance of the Little Dipper comes almost entirely from Polaris. Due to its position nearly directly above the Earth's northern axis of rotation, Polaris appears to stay fixed in the same spot all night long as the rest of the northern sky pivots around it. For centuries, this has made it an essential beacon for sailors and travelers to determine the direction of true north. The other six stars of the asterism are much fainter, but they create the helpful dipper shape that guides the eye to this crucial navigational star.