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指极星
zhǐ jí xīng
pointer star
在古代航海中，水手们常用指极星来确定方向。
In ancient navigation, sailors often used the pointer star to determine direction.
astronomy
A star used as a navigational reference point, typically one of the two stars in the Big Dipper's bowl that point toward Polaris.
通过指极星，我们可以轻松找到北极星的位置。
By using the pointer star, we can easily locate the position of Polaris.
指极星 commonly refers to the stars Dubhe (α Ursae Majoris) and Merak (β Ursae Majoris) in the Big Dipper constellation, which are used to locate Polaris (the North Star).
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Remembering the Pointer Star
To locate Polaris, find the two bright stars at the front edge of the Big Dipper's bowl (Dubhe and Merak) and draw an imaginary line through them. Polaris lies along this line, about five times the distance between the two stars.
Word Origin
The term combines 指 (zhǐ, 'to point') and 极星 (jíxīng, 'Polaris' or 'pole star'), reflecting its navigational function.
Usage Notes
指极星 is primarily used in astronomical and navigational contexts. It is not a common term in everyday language.
Word Breakdown
指
to point
root极
pole/extreme
root星
star
root汉英词典