Constellations are useful because they can help people to recognize stars in the sky. By looking for patterns, the stars and locations can be much easier to spot. The constellations had uses in ancient timesas well. They were used to help keep track of the calendar. This was very important so that people knew when to plant and harvest crops. Ancient sailors used the stars to help guide them while they were at sea. The Phoenicians looked to the sun’s movement across the heavens to tell them their direction. Early astronomers realized that some constellations, such as the Big Dipper, were only seen in the northern part of the sky. The location of the North Star -- Polaris -- helped travelers figure the direction they needed to head in to reach their destination. As part of the Ursus Minor constellation, the lesser bear, Polaris sits above the northern planetary pole without moving too much, making it an excellent navigational tool.