How is Polaris used to navigate?

Polaris, also known as the North Star, is used for navigation because it is positioned nearly directly above the North Pole, making it a reliable indicator of true north. Navigators can find Polaris by locating the Big Dipper constellation; the two stars at the end of its "bowl" point directly to it. By measuring the angle between Polaris and the horizon, navigators can also determine their latitude in the Northern Hemisphere. This makes Polaris a crucial reference point for celestial navigation.