Big Dipper vs. Little Dipper

Big Dipper vs. Little Dipper: What's the difference?

Big Dipper and Little Dipper refer to groups of stars (asterisms) within constellations, each made up of seven stars that form a shape resembling a cuplike container with a long handle. The Big Dipper is seen within Ursa Major, and is recognizable by its large size and bright stars. The Little Dipper is seen in Ursa Minor and is located opposite the Big Dipper; it also contains the North Star, Polaris.