Gamma Cephei, aka Errai, a future North Star

Gamma Cephei - or Errai - is a binary star system that will one day be Earth’s North Star. It's home to the 1st exoplanet ever discovered.

Fomalhaut is the Loneliest Star … but not in 2025

Fomalhaut is known as the 'lonely one' or 'solitary one' because it shines brightly in an otherwise dim patch of sky. But in 2025, Saturn is nearby.

Thuban was the North Star for the ancient Egyptians

The North Star changes over time. Thuban was the Pole Star some 5,000 years ago, when the Egyptians were building the pyramids.

61 Cygni – a double star – is nicknamed Flying Star

Compared to other stars, 61 Cygni moves quite rapidly against the background of more distant stars, revealing its proximity to Earth.

Eltanin and Rastaban, the Dragon’s eyes

These 2 famous stars shine down from the northern sky. Eltanin and Rastaban represent the fiery eyes of the constellation Draco the Dragon.

Alphecca, a jewel in Corona Borealis the Northern Crown

Alphecca. Gemma. Alpha Coronae Borealis or simply Alpha Cor Bor. They're all names for a single star, the brightest star in the Northern Crown.

Acrux is the brightest star in the Southern Cross

Acrux, also called Alpha Crucis, is the brightest star in the constellation Crux, the Southern Cross. And it is not 1, but 2 stars.

Bellatrix is Orion’s 3rd-brightest star

Orion's shoulder star Bellatrix has a name that means "female warrior." Bellatrix is one of the hottest stars you can see without optical aid.

Mirach is your guide star to finding 3 galaxies

Mirach in the constellation Andromeda helps stargazers locate the Andromeda Galaxy, the Triangulum Galaxy, and "Mirach's Ghost" (NGC 404).

Alpheratz belongs to Andromeda, but is part of the Great Square

Alpheratz appears to our eyes as a single star but it is actually a close binary star system. Many stargazers use it to locate the Andromeda galaxy.

2026 Donation Campaign

If EarthSky has ever helped you discover something new, prepare for an eclipse, spot a planet, or simply inspired a moment of wonder, today is the perfect day to give back. Your donation helps keep trusted science news, expert night sky guides, and independent science journalism free for everyone.

Please help keep EarthSky going by donating today!

Please help keep

EarthSky going!

If you've already donated, we apologize for the popup and greatly appreciate your support.