Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

Which North Star is often used in contemporary surveying to determine north?

1. Polaris

2. Vega

3. Sirius

4. Procyon

The correct answer is: Polaris

Polaris, commonly known as the North Star, is widely used in contemporary surveying to determine true north. Its significance stems from its position nearly aligned with the Earth's rotational axis, making it a vital reference point for navigation and orientation in the northern hemisphere. Surveyors utilize Polaris because it remains relatively fixed in the sky while other stars seem to move, allowing for reliable measurements and direction-finding. This predictability and consistency make Polaris an essential tool for establishing baseline directions during surveying processes. The other options, while notable stars, do not possess the same fixed position that would render them useful for determining north in a surveying context.