Which constellation is located near the celestial pole in the northern hemisphere?

Which constellation is located near the celestial pole in the northern hemisphere?

• A. Cepheus
• B. Draco
• C. Aquila
• D. Pegasus

Answer: (A)

The correct answer is Cepheus, as it is a constellation located near the north celestial pole. This means that it is positioned in the northern hemisphere's night sky and is closely associated with the area around the North Star, Polaris.

Cepheus is part of the circumpolar constellations, which are constellations that never set below the horizon for observers at northern latitudes. This characteristic means that they are often visible all year round. The constellation is named after King Cepheus from Greek mythology and has a shape that can be recognized by its distinctive house-like outline.

Draco, while also located in the northern hemisphere, winds around Ursa Minor and can be recognized due to its long, winding shape, but it is not as directly associated with the celestial pole as Cepheus. Aquila, known for its bright star Altair, is primarily located along the Milky Way and is further south. Pegasus, featuring the Great Square, is located farther from the pole and is not classified as a circumpolar constellation, making it less relevant to the question about proximity to the celestial pole.