Trying to locate Ursa Minor tonight from Northern Hemisphere USA?

Question

I see Ursa Major but Im having difficulty locating Ursa Minor. Any tips? I live south of Nashville Tennessee.

Thanks Neilos

Answer 1

The little dipper is part of Ursa Minor, and the big dipper is part of Ursa Major. Polaris, the north star, is the end of the handle of the little dipper, but most of the stars in the little dipper are quite dim, unlike the big dipper which is 7 pretty bright stars. Since you live just south of a big city, the sky to your north is probably so bright that you cannot even see most of the stars in the little dipper.

Answer 2

Find Ursa Major (which you've done).

Look at the two bright stars at the opposite end of the 'pan' to the handle (Duhbe and Merak).

Follow them up, and they'll lead you straight to Ursa Minor.

Answer 3

Find Polaris or the North Star and you will find it. Ursa minor is "connected" to the North Star. Polaris is the first star in the "handle".