Polaris, also known as the North Star, is a bright star located nearly directly above the North Pole. It is part of the constellation Ursa Minor and is often used for navigation because it remains relatively fixed in the sky while other stars appear to move. Polaris is approximately 433 light-years away from Earth and is classified as a supergiant star. Polaris is not the brightest star in the night sky, but its position makes it significant for travelers and explorers. It has been used for centuries by sailors and adventurers to find true north. The star is also a part of various cultural myths and stories across different civilizations.