The Polaris Window

Polaris, the North Star, is framed by the Polaris window. A star of the second magnitude, it stands alone and forms the tail of the constellation Ursa Minor. It marks the approximate position of the north celestial pole. On clear nights, viewers may position themselves between the two surface lights near the center of the monument and observe the North Star by looking through the Polaris window formed below the lintel, above the sill, and between the inner faces of the north trilithon. To secure the best view of Polaris, viewers should stand near the surface light which most nearly indicates their approximate height.

Rolla, Missouri · United States