Question

the north star polaris has been useful in the modern era for determining ones latitude in the northern hemisphere. however, when explorers sailed south of the equator they were no longer able to use polaris to determine their latitude. polaris dropped below the horizon that far south. atmospheric distortions that far south make polaris no longer appear at the north celestial pole. you cant fool me; explorers use polaris to determine their latitude anywhere on the earth. polaris became too dim that far south. polaris became too blended with other stars in the sky that far south. submit hint feedback i give up! 4 submission(s) remaining hints: 0% deduction per hint. hints remaining: 2 feedback: 0% deduction per feedback. grade summary deductions 0% potential 100% submissions attempt(s) remaining: 4 25% deduction per attempt detailed view

Explanation:

Polaris is located very close to the north - celestial pole. As explorers sail south of the equator, Polaris drops below the horizon because of the Earth's curvature and Polaris's position relative to the north - celestial pole.

Answer:

Polaris dropped below the horizon that far south.