While Ursa Major and Ursa Minor may arguably be the most widely known constellations, many, however, are unaware of its origins.

More commonly known as the Big and Little Dipper, according to Constellation Legends, it has been known by many names, but the form of the bear has become the most common, even though it’s quite difficult to see this image through the stars.

In Greek Mythology, the story begins with Zeus, the “father of Gods.” Husband of Goddess Hera, Zeus held many additional relationships with human women on Earth. While many were very beautiful, Zeus favored a young nymph named Callisto. According to Theoi Greek Mythology, Callisto was seduced by Zeus and bore a child named Arcas.

While Zeus’ secret visits to Earth to meet with Callisto did not go unnoticed, according to Constellation Legends, they only added to Hera’s jealousy and determination to get revenge against these women.

Hoping to catch Zeus in the act, Hera followed Zeus into the forest where he often met Callisto. Before Hera could find them together, Zeus spotted Hera and quickly transformed Callisto into a bear in order to hide her from Hera. When Hera appeared, she found Zeus alone. Remaining skeptical, Hera insisted Zeus to leave the forest with her, as Zeus was hesitant to do.

Unaware of Arcas hunting in the forest, Zeus left with Hera and therefore trapped Callisto in the form of the bear. While Arcas was hunting, he came across Callisto and shot her straight through the heart, Constellation Legends said. As Callisto lay dying, she transformed back to her original form and Arcas was filled with anguish as he realized it was his mother he killed.

Discovered it was Zeus who changed his mother, Arcas grew angry with Zeus and sought after him. In fear that Hera would discover the truth, Zeus transformed Callisto back into the form of the bear, as well as Arcas into a smaller bear, and hid them into the sky as constellations.

According to Constellation Legends, as Arcas was being placed, he turned to look at his mother so that he may watch over her for all eternity. As seen in the constellation, the Little Dipper remains tilted towards the Big Dipper.

According to earthsky.org, the constellation Ursa Major and Ursa Minor can be found in the northern sky near the North Star.