Can you find the North Star in this photograph?

[cherokeeprogressive]

This is 25 minutes of exposure at ISO 400 with a wide angle lens using a Canon T1i. I have trouble focusing on the star because I had Lasik surgery a few years ago and cannot see things up close very well. I got lucky this time. When I take the next set, I'm going to ask my wife to try and focus the camera for me! I thought it came out pretty good though... Comments?

For those who are curious, the easiest way to find the North Star is to find the Big Dipper, then find the front of the cup. Drawing a line from the bottom star to the top star at the front of the cup, then counting three fists held at arms length will show you where the North Star is. Contrary to popular belief, or what I've been told anyway, the North Star IS NOT the brightest star in the sky. Far from it, as you can see from this picture.

[Saphire]

1. That is a great shot.

[cherokeeprogressive]

2. This one's a little better...

[alfredo]

3. Ursa Major (big bear) and star map

There is also an eye test. The star in the crook of the handle is a double star. If you can see the companion star your eyes are good.