The altitude of Polaris, or its angle above the horizon, corresponds to your latitude in the Northern Hemisphere. For example, if Polaris is observed at an altitude of 30 degrees, you are located at approximately 30 degrees north latitude. This relationship allows navigators and astronomers to determine their geographic position using the stars. However, it is important to note that this method is applicable only in the Northern Hemisphere, as Polaris is not visible from the Southern Hemisphere.
I am having great difficulty seeing this map, leave alone Polaris!
A topographic map shows the altitude of land features. It uses contour lines to represent the shape and elevation of the terrain. The closer together the contour lines, the steeper the slope, while widely spaced contour lines indicate gentle slopes or flat areas.
A black dot on a map is typically used to represent a point of interest or location. It could indicate a specific landmark, city, or attraction.
An elephant symbol on an Ordnance Survey map typically represents a zoo or wildlife park where elephants are kept. It is used to indicate the location of the facility for visitors or those interested in wildlife attractions.
You look at the contours. Steeply sloping contours with numbers that are increasing usually indicate that the height is increasing, and may be an indicator for hills. Contrastingly, steeply sloping contours with decreasing numbers indicate a decreasing altitude, and may indicate a depression or a valley.
A topographical map gives you the third dimension of altitude.
A relative location map is a map that assumes that the viewer's present location is the center of the map. This means that everything else is relative to their location.
A star on a map is usually called a "map symbol" or specifically a "star symbol." This symbol often represents a significant location, such as a city, landmark, or point of interest. In some cases, it may indicate the location of a specific event or feature that is noteworthy for navigation or reference.
Contour lines on a topographic map indicate elevation above sea level. They connect points of equal elevation and show the shape and steepness of the land surface. Closer contour lines indicate steep terrain, while farther apart lines indicate flatter terrain.
A black dot on a map can indicate a point of interest, a specific location, or a landmark. It is commonly used to highlight a notable feature or place on the map.
A relative location map is a map that assumes that the viewer's present location is the center of the map. This means that everything else is relative to their location.
Topographic maps use colors and shading to display elevation and altitude. Typically, darker shades represent lower elevations, while lighter shades indicate higher elevations. This allows users to easily visualize the terrain and elevation changes in a particular area.