first star of the Big Dipper
Refers to the star Dubhe (α Ursae Majoris), the first star in the Big Dipper's bowl. Used in classical Chinese astronomy and literature.
Kaisei is the first star of the Big Dipper.
top civil service examinee (Imperial China)
Archaic term from Imperial China, referring to the candidate who achieved the highest score in the civil service examination. The star name was metaphorically applied to the top scholar.
Being chosen as the top examinee in the civil service examination was the highest honor.