Stargazing from Tenerife offers breathtaking views of the cosmos, and among the most recognisable patterns in the sky are the Big Dipper and the Little Dipper. Known as asterisms—distinctive patterns of stars that are part of larger constellations, they help even beginner astronomers navigate the night sky with ease.
In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between these iconic formations, how to locate them, their celestial significance, and what makes Tenerife the perfect place to admire them.
Understanding the dippers: What are they?
The Big Dipper and its role in navigation
The Big Dipper is part of the constellation of Ursa Major, or the Great Bear. It’s composed of seven bright stars: four forming the bowl of the Big Dipper, and three outlining its handle. This formation is highly visible in the Northern Hemisphere and is one of the easiest patterns to find in the night sky.
Two of the stars in the bowl of the Big Dipper, known as pointer stars, help locate Polaris, the North Star. By tracing a line from these stars, observers can easily identify Polaris, which lies almost directly above Earth’s celestial pole.
The Little Dipper and iIts sSubtler aAppearance
The Little Dipper belongs to the constellation Ursa Minor, or the Little Bear. It also has seven stars, but they are fainter than those in the Big Dipper, making it more challenging to spot. However, the key to finding the Little Dipper lies in identifying Polaris, which forms the tip of the handle of the Little Dipper.
The stars in the bowl of the Little Dipper complete the shape, but due to their faintness, dark skies are essential—something Tenerife is well known for.
What is the difference between the Big Dipper and Little Dipper?
- Brightness: The Big Dipper is made up of brighter stars, making it easier to see, even in light-polluted areas.
- Position: The Big Dipper rotates around Polaris and changes position seasonally, while the Little Dipper remains more constant in its placement.
- Role in Navigation: The Big Dipper is often used to find the Big Dipper’s pointer stars, which lead directly to Polaris.
- Size and Visibility: The Big Dipper is larger and more prominent. The Little Dipper, being part of constellation Ursa Minor, is smaller and subtler.
British and European names for the Big Dipper
In the UK and other parts of Europe, the Big Dipper is more commonly known as The Plough. In France, it’s referred to as La Grande Casserole, and in Germany, Der Große Wagen. Despite the different names, the asterism remains one of the most familiar star patterns worldwide.
Is the Big Dipper made of 7 or 8 stars?
Traditionally, the Big Dipper consists of seven main stars. However, some observers note a faint companion star to Mizar in the handle, making the count seem like eight under ideal viewing conditions.
How rare is it to see the Big Dipper?
The Big Dipper is visible throughout the year in most of the Northern Hemisphere, including from Tenerife. Its location high in the sky and its brightness make it a reliable point of reference for amateur and professional astronomers alike.
Why is the Big Dipper special?
The Big Dipper isn’t just easy to spot; it’s also instrumental in finding other constellations and stars. It serves as a cosmic signpost, helping observers locate:
- Polaris the North Star (via the pointer stars)
- The constellation of Ursa Major
- The constellation Ursa Minor, through Polaris
It also plays a central role in many mythologies and cultural stories around the globe.
Does the Little Dipper pour into the Big Dipper?
While it’s a poetic image, the Little Dipper doesn’t physically “pour” into the Big Dipper. However, the spatial relationship between the two asterisms makes this a fun and memorable metaphor for children learning the stars.
What is mistaken for the Little Dipper?
Due to the faintness of its stars, the Little Dipper is often mistaken for other nearby patterns or even misidentified entirely. Beginners might confuse Cassiopeia, shaped like a “W” or “M,” with part of the Little Dipper.
What is the best month to see Ursa Minor?
Ursa Minor is circumpolar, meaning it’s visible year-round from Tenerife. However, the best visibility occurs during winter and spring months when the air is typically clearer.
Observing the dippers from Tenerife
Tenerife’s Teide National Park offers some of the best stargazing conditions in Europe. Located above 2,000 metres with minimal light pollution, the island provides stunning views of the night sky—including both Dippers.
The altitude and geography of Tenerife allow for minimal atmospheric interference, meaning constellations like Ursa Major, Ursa Minor, and their dipper constellations shine bright against the dark sky. You’ll even begin to appreciate astronomical distances—like that Polaris lies approximately 433 light years away.
A guided stargazing tour experience
To truly experience the wonder of the Big and Little Dipper, join a professional stargazing tour with Teide By Night. You’ll enjoy:
- High-powered telescopes
- Expert astronomers explaining the Big Dipper asterism
- A unique chance to spot Polaris the North Star, Ursa Major, and Ursa Minor with clarity
Whether you’re an avid astronomer or a curious traveller, understanding the Big Dipper vs Little Dipper adds a whole new dimension to your night sky experience. And there’s no better place to explore the cosmos than under Tenerife’s pristine skies.
So grab your star map, point your eyes to the heavens, and let the bowl of the Big Dipper and the handle of the Little Dipper guide your journey through the stars.
👉 Book your unforgettable stargazing tour with Teide By Night now!
